We all know that exercise is good for our bodies, but researchers have now shown that the simple exercise of walking can invigorate the mind, even after a setback as serious as a stroke.

According to research conducted at Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland, even people who had a stroke 20 years ago can improve both their mobility and brain function with the simple exercise of walking.

In a test of 70 stroke victims, researchers found that walking on a treadmill for 40 minutes 3 times a day not only improved fitness, but also increased brain activity. In this test, the participants were divided into 2 groups. One group did stretching exercises and the other group walked, many with the help of a therapist or walking aid. After 6 months, the walking group showed significant gains, while the stretching group showed little improvement in brain activity.

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, and for those lucky enough to survive, the result can be both physical deterioration and mental confusion.

Stroke occurs when there is a lack of oxygen and blood flow to the brain. The severity of the effects of stroke depends in part on the part of the brain affected. Another factor is the volume and duration of the oxygen shortage.

Some are mildly affected and recover as if nothing happened, while others never regain the use of their body parts, including the ability to speak. Others suffer from mental confusion.

Many doctors believe that physical and speech therapy must achieve their results within the first six months after a stroke to have a positive effect. This study proved that to be incorrect, as some of the participants who saw increased brain activity had had strokes up to 20 years before the study.

After considering this study, it follows that regular walking exercise should be beneficial for brain function in those who have not had a stroke.

The next question: Can you walk regularly to prevent a stroke from happening in the first place?