Assessment
Pedal Power: Getting Started
Improve your brain health through bike riding
Yellow Dog/Getty Images
Quick Win
Riding a bike is good exercise for brain health and happiness.
Try This Today
- To begin, plan to spend 10–15 minutes at a time pedaling. You can use a stationary bike at the gym or your own bike outdoors.
- Focus on getting used to the activity. Don’t overdo it; stop before you feel exerted or sore.
- Each time you ride, increase your time by 2–3 minutes, gradually building up to 30-minute rides two times a week.
Why
According to AARP’s Global Council on Brain Health, purposeful exercise at moderate physical exertion to raise your heartrate (e.g. cycling, jogging, running, swimming laps, group exercise classes) — provides many benefits for brain health.
More Ways to Benefit
- Related Benefit 1
- Related Benefit 2
- Related Benefit 3
- Related Benefit 4
- Related Benefit 5
AARP NEWSLETTERS
Get the Staying Sharp newsletter
Sign up for the latest on brain health, featuring articles, activities, recipes, games and more!
Benefits Recommended For You
You’ve reached content that’s exclusive to AARP members.
To continue, you’ll need to become an AARP member. Join now, and you’ll have access to all the great content and features in Staying Sharp, plus more AARP member benefits.
Already a Member? Login
More From Staying Sharp
Your Brain on Tennis
Learn how tennis challenges the brain in ways that other exercises may notGet Back on Track When You Overeat
Stay on track with healthy habits like walking and hydration after a big meal
Hidden Dangers of Too Much Sitting
Find out how excessive sitting affects your health and what you can do