Cardiorespiratory fitness measures the body’s aerobic capacity—the ability to deliver oxygen to skeletal muscles—during sustained physical activity. A recent study found that better cardiorespiratory fitness boosts cognitive performance, even among people at greater risk for cognitive decline, such as older adults and APOE4 carriers.

Researchers collected information from more than 600 older adults regarding their age, sex, education, use of beta-blockers (drugs that lower heart rate), and APOE4 gene status (a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s). The participants underwent cardiorespiratory fitness testing on a treadmill. They also completed a comprehensive battery of neuropsychological tests to assess their cognitive function across multiple domains, including processing speed, executive function, working memory, episodic memory, and attention control.

Participants with higher cardiorespiratory fitness performed better on all cognitive assessment domains than those with poorer fitness—even among those at greater risk for cognitive decline, such as older adults and APOE4 carriers. Additionally, women, participants with fewer years of education, and those taking beta-blockers demonstrated greater cognitive performance in processing speed and executive function.

These findings suggest that better cardiorespiratory fitness in later life protects against cognitive decline.Although robust exercise is the best way to boost cardiorespiratory fitness, sauna use does, too. Learn more in our members-only report, Sauna Use: Implications for Aging and the Brain.