Exercise is neuroprotection—but participation is the imperative

Exercise may be one of the most potent tools for protecting the brain—but only through active participation can its benefits be realized. This perspective provides a brief overview of current research avenues and key insights into the role of physical activity and exercise in preventing and mitigating chronic and neurodegenerative diseases and promoting optimal health across the population. The perspective opens with a summary of key findings on how exercise supports brain health and cognitive well-being. It then draws on rodent model studies which shed light on the molecular mechanisms behind these benefits. The paper addresses challenges in translating this research into effective, real-world exercise programs and introduces a new framework aimed at fostering global, inclusive initiatives. This transformative approach is designed to reach individuals across all ages, backgrounds, and health statuses. A central theme throughout is the critical role of psychological factors in exercise adherence—highlighting the need to tackle these barriers if scientific advances are to translate into meaningful benefits for diverse populations.