Why Movement Keeps Body and Mind Healthy as We Age

Active Aging is not just a social or lifestyle concept. It is deeply rooted in human biology. Current scientific research shows that regular physical activity is one of the most powerful drivers of healthy aging, supporting both physical and cognitive health.

A key mechanism behind this is the so-called muscle-brain axis [1]. When we move, our muscles act as an active endocrine organ and release signalling molecules into the bloodstream. One of the most important of these molecules is the hormone irisin.

Irisin [2] is released during muscle contraction and plays a dual role. In skeletal muscle, it supports the maintenance of muscle mass and strength, promotes efficient metabolism and counteracts age-related muscle loss, known as sarcopenia [3]. At the same time, irisin acts on the brain, where it stimulates the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) [4], a key protein for learning, memory and neuroplasticity [5].

Through this muscle-brain communication, regular physical activity helps preserve cognitive function, supports the formation of new neural connections and protects existing ones. Scientific studies show that irisin also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain and may limit pathological processes associated with neurodegenerative diseases [6] such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

With increasing age, irisin levels often decline alongside muscle mass, mobility and cognitive performance. This helps explain why physical inactivity is strongly associated with frailty, loss of independence and cognitive decline. Importantly, research consistently demonstrates that regular and structured physical activity can counteract these processes, even in later life.

From an Active Aging perspective, these findings underline a clear message: movement is not optional. It is a biological necessity for maintaining mobility, mental performance, independence and quality of life as we age. Physical activity is therefore one of the most effective non-pharmacological strategies to support healthy aging across the lifespan.

Key Terms

[1] Muscle-Brain Axis The connection through which movement in the muscles supports brain health.

[2] Irisin A hormone released during physical activity that supports muscles and brain function.

[3] Sarcopenia Age-related loss of muscle mass and strength.

[4] Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) A protein that helps protect brain cells and supports learning and memory.

[5] Neuroplasticity The brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections throughout life.

[6] Neurodegenerative Diseases Conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s that affect brain cells over time.

References

Arosio, B., & Picca, A. (2026). Irisin and the muscle-brain axis: Mechanisms and translational potential. Experimental Gerontology, 214, 113028. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2026.113028

Transparency Note

This summary is based on a scientific review published in Experimental Gerontology (2026) and translates current evidence on the muscle-brain axis and physical activity into an Active Aging context.

Author: Lea Laciak & Petra Thaller, Outdoor Against Cancer