Study of 72 Older Adults Finds Cardio Speeds Processing as Dance Sharpens Attention
Updated
Updated · mindbodygreen · Jul 25
Study of 72 Older Adults Finds Cardio Speeds Processing as Dance Sharpens Attention
1 articles · Updated · mindbodygreen · Jul 25
Summary
A study of 72 adults aged 60 to 78 found regular endurance exercise and dance were linked to different cognitive strengths rather than a single broad brain boost.
On the Flanker test, runners, cyclists and swimmers were fastest overall, pointing to better processing speed, while dancers slowed less under distraction, suggesting stronger flexible attention.
Both active groups had trained at least four hours a week for five years, yet the Trail Making and Corsi Block tests showed no significant differences from inactive peers.
Researchers said the split may reflect how the activities tax the brain: endurance work is repetitive and may aid blood flow and neural efficiency, while dance demands sequencing, cue-reading and constant adaptation.
The findings suggest older adults may gain the widest cognitive benefit by combining aerobic exercise with movement that challenges attention in real time.