Professor Erik Scherder is als hoogleraar neuropsychologie aan de Vrije Universiteit (VU) elke dag bezig met de vraag: hoe houd je je brein vitaal?Hij doet onderzoek, geeft les, schrijft boeken, gaat het land in voor lezingen en deelt zijn kennis in tv-programma’s. Zijn mantra: een actief lichaam is een actief brein. Zelf houdt hij zich daaraan door onder meer elke dag een uur te fietsen. Waarom is dat eigenlijk zo goed voor je?

Scherder practises what he preaches. He lives about 30 minutes by bike from work and deliberately chooses not to take the tram or bus. "Because it's incredibly important to challenge your brain every day," he says.

What happens in your brain when you cycle
"It immediately gets your body working. Your heart performs better because cycling requires effort and raises your heart rate. Your heart then pumps blood to your brain, and that circulation is extremely important. Cycling also stimulates the growth of additional blood vessels and nerve cells.

Cycling is beneficial for your brain's neuro­chemistry too. Put simply, when you move, your body produces substances that affect your motivation, mood, and sense of happiness. That's why you feel more ener­getic and positive after a ride.

Physically active people are also demonstrably better at dealing with stress and have a lower risk of depression. The benefits are wide-ranging. It keeps both your body and mind healthy."

You notice the difference in everyday life, too.
"If you stay active, you can concentrate better and keep the connections in your brain working efficiently. You're also better able to structure your day and keep a clearer overview."

Keep challenging yourself
There's no universal standard for how much exercise you should get. "That differs from person to person. Personally, I don't stimulate my brain by taking it easy. I walk briskly, take the stairs, and cycle at a good pace without electric assist. For someone else, cycling with pedal assist may already be a meaningful challenge. As long as you keep challenging yourself, you're doing well."

Cycling outdoors together

According to Scherder, cycling outdoors brings the greatest benefits for the brain. The ideal environment is nature. "Trees, parks, and  water are, according to the scientific literature, the most beneficial settings for your cognitive functions. In a busy city, you're constantly having to pay attention to avoid traffic. So, head out to the heathland, the forest, or a park." Even better is cycling together.  "Research shows that in the so-called Blue Zones - places around the world where people live remarkably long lives - social connection and looking out for one another are the most important factors. Cycling is an activity that's perfectly suited to doing together, and that has been proven to be good for your health." 

Don't hesitate

Scherder also has advice for anyone unsure whether a different kind of bike is right for them. "Don't hesitate. The wonderful thing about cycling is that you can always keep moving, in your own way. You're sitting down, yet you're still moving. That's a golden combination.

Even if your balance changes, a different type of bike can offer a solution. The most important thing is to keep moving. By continuing to cycle, you can better manage common health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and excess weight. That way, you stay fit and active." ■

Pedal assistance that moves with you

vanRaam bikes have different levels of pedal assistance, from light to powerful. You might need little support right now, but it is good to know that it is there as your body changes. The pedal assistance is fully customisable to your specific situation.