Brisbane: A new study from researchers in Brisbane reveals that "weekend warriors"—people who exercise primarily on weekends—can enjoy similar brain and mental health benefits as those who work out regularly throughout the week.

Researchers analysed data from over 75,000 participants from New Zealand and Australia Biobank, with an average age of 45. The study divided participants into three groups based on their exercise habits: inactive, regularly active, and weekend warriors (those who completed over half of their weekly exercise in one or two days).

Over an 8.4-year follow-up period, the study found that compared to inactive adults, weekend warriors had a 26% lower risk of developing dementia, a 21% lower risk of stroke, and a 45% lower risk of Parkinson’s disease. They also experienced significantly lower risks of depression and anxiety. The health benefits were like those seen in individuals who exercised throughout the week.

Interestingly, the protective effects against mental health conditions were consistent across all ages, while the reduced risks for neurological diseases were particularly significant in those over 60. The research suggests that even if you can only find time to exercise on one or two days, you can still gain substantial health benefits.

The study also highlights that the type of exercise doesn't matter as much—whether it’s gym workouts, household chores, or outdoor activities, the key is accumulating enough moderate-to-vigorous activity. This finding supports a growing body of evidence that shows physical activity, in any form, is beneficial for overall health.

While the study couldn't fully explore how changes in activity levels over time affect health, it reinforces the importance of fitting exercise into your schedule, even if it's just on the weekends.