Getting regular exercise may lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease as well as other brain disorders. You don't have to be a serious athlete; current research indicates moderate exercise for 30 minutes a day, several times a week, has a protective effect.
The goal is to increase your heart rate to 80% of (220 - your age). For example, if you are 70 years old, your target heart rate is 120 beats per minute. If you're 50, it's 136, and if you're 30, it's 152. Regular exercise increases blood flow and reduces stress levels, both of which help to improve memory.
Another type of exercise includes resistive (strengthening) exercises, including weight machines, elastic bands, or free weights. Tai Chi, yoga, and Qi Gong help to improve balance, strength and flexibility.