Exergaming Builds Brains As Well As Brawn

It works for older folks, and it might work for everyone. Researchers at Union College have learned that people who exercise with virtual-reality enhanced equipment like cybercycles show significant improvement in cognitive function, as well as the physical improvements one might expect from such exercise. A Union College news release reports that the researchers monitored the physiological, neuropsychological and behavioral impact cybercycling had on 63 volunteers, ranging in age from 58 to 99 years, who averaged three rides each week for three months. Approximately half of the group rode recumbent stationary bikes, while the other half rode cybercycles, specially designed bikes equipped with a virtual reality display. Cybercycle rider experienced 3D tours through places like the Redwoods of California and the cactus trail in Arizona. They also raced against a “ghost rider,” an avatar based on their last best ride. The researchers found that cybercycle riders had significantly better executive function, which affects multi-tasking and decision making, than those who rode a traditional stationary bike, and the cybercyclists had a 23 percent reduction in progression to mild cognitive impairment compared to traditional exercisers. The study, published in the Journal of Preventive Medicine, also found a significantly greater increase in BDNF among cybercyclists than in traditional riders, suggesting that interactive/combined mental and physical exercise may lead to cognitive benefits by way of biomarkers linked to neurotrophic effects.