New research recently published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society explores the benefits of exercising for delaying Alzheimer’s disease. Outlined in this study were nine steps anyone could take to significantly reduce their risk of getting the disease. One of the steps outlined was regular physical activity.

In fact, it is so widely accepted by the health community, that exercise is a good way to prevent dementia, that the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend that individuals aged 65 and above engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise every week, or 75 weekly minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise, to keep this form of dementia at bay.

Great ways to get in your aerobic exercise include brisk walking, running, cycling, swimming, or working out at a fitness facility.

Dr. Keith Fargo, director of scientific programs and outreach for the Alzheimer’s Association in Chicago notes that anything that gets your heart pumping and your muscles moving is heading you in the right direction to better overall health. Plus when you include strength training (e.g., weights, resistance machines, isometrics, etc.), you maintain your muscle mass and prevent osteoporosis and related illness as well as stave off dementia.

So what does this all mean? Well…no matter what you do or where you come from, regular exercise is one of the best ways if not the best way to keep yourself fit and healthy. This research also offers reassurance that people can take steps to protect themselves against Alzheimer’s disease, even if they are at high genetic risk. The evidence shows that it’s never too late to take up and maintain a physically active regimen, and also suggests that the earlier you begin and the longer you continue it, the more benefits you tend to accrue.