Exercise Benefits Cognition After Brain Injury

In this episode, we explore how moderate-intensity cycling may improve memory, thinking speed, and even brain structures in individuals with traumatic brain injury. Pioneering research from Kessler Foundation includes the study design, results, and what it means for TBI rehabilitation. Hear how exercise could become a key tool in cognitive recovery and why these findings matter for patients and caregivers alike. This Real-Life Science summary is part of our series that translates peer-reviewed research into practical, real-world understanding. ===================================================================================== Kessler Foundation Investigators: Lead: Carly Wender, PhD https://kesslerfoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/carly-wender-phd ===================================================================================== READ this journal article: “The preliminary effects of moderate aerobic training on cognitive function in people with TBI and significant memory impairment: a proof-of-concept randomized controlled trial,” published in Neurocase, The Neural Basis of Cognition (2021). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34704543/. EXPLORE our traumatic brain injury research: https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/center-traumatic-brain-injury PARTICIPATE: Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to kesslerfoundation.org/join LISTEN to more Real-Life Science Summaries: https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/real-life-science ===================================================================================== LOOKING FOR MORE PODCASTS? Join our listeners in 90 countries who enjoy learning about the work of Kessler Foundation. Subscribe to our SoundCloud channel, “KesslerFoundation,” for more research updates. This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation in December 2025. ===================================================================================== Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at [email protected].