A round of golf is good for older peoples' brain health as well as physical well-being, according to a new study. Researchers found that one 18-hole round of golf or walking six kilometres may "significantly improve" immediate cognitive function in people over 65 years of age.
Each exercise involved the participants maintaining their typical pace, corresponding to brisk walking. Cognitive function was assessed using widely used tests. The participants also wore fitness monitoring devices to record exercise-specific data such as distance, duration, pace, energy expenditure and steps. An ECG sensor with a chest strap was used to monitor heart rate.
No significant effects were seen on the levels of BDNF and CTSB. Nordic walking and regular walking were also associated with enhanced executive functions measured with the TMT-B test.