Working out on an exercise bicycle while you pedal through a make-believe video environment, can help keep your brain power stronger as you age. 

So-called cybercycling, according to a study published in American Journal of Preventive Medicine, may also help seniors avoid some degree of age-related memory problems. It even works better at protecting the brain, say the scientists, than a traditional workout.

"Navigating a 3D landscape, anticipating turns, and competing with others requires additional focus, expanded divided attention, and enhanced decision making. These activities depend in part on executive function, which was significantly affected," said lead investigator Cay Anderson-Hanley, Ph.D.

Study participants who used a "cybercycle," a stationary bike equipped with a virtual reality screen, experienced more cognitive improvements than those who used only a traditional piece of exercise equipment. Both groups exercised for the same amount of time and at the same level of intensity, yet experienced different mental results.