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Updated: Feb 10, 2026

Visualization of Intensity Levels to Reduce the Gap Between Self-Reported and Directly Measured Physical Activity
Published on: March 7, 2019
Association of objectively measured physical activity with brain structure: UK Biobank study
M Hamer1,2, N Sharma3, G D Batty2
1School Sport, Exercise & Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK.
Regular physical activity is linked to increased grey matter and hippocampal volume, particularly in adults over 60. This suggests physical activity may help prevent neurodegenerative diseases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Public Health
Background:
- Physical activity's cognitive benefits are known, but underlying mechanisms require elucidation.
- The relationship between objectively measured physical activity and brain structure, especially the hippocampus, remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between habitual physical activity and brain volume.
- To specifically examine the impact of physical activity on hippocampal volume.
Main Methods:
- Utilized UK Biobank data from 5272 participants (aged 55.4 ± 7.5 years).
- Assessed physical activity using 7-day accelerometer data (Axivity AX3).
- Acquired brain structural magnetic resonance imaging (Siemens Skyra 3T).
Main Results:
- Physical activity showed a significant association with grey matter volume in adults over 60.
- Positive associations were found between physical activity and both left and right hippocampal volumes.
- These associations remained significant after adjusting for multiple covariates.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity may contribute to preserving brain structure, including the hippocampus.
- Findings suggest a potential role for physical activity in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.
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