The Research Institute for Smart Ageing (RISA) and the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences (FHSS) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) successfully hosted The 1st International Symposium on Moving Against Neurodegeneration: The Science and Benefits of Exercise for Brain Health on 27 August 2026. The event brought together leading academics, clinicians, and researchers worldwide to explore how physical activity combats neurodegenerative decline and promotes cognitive longevity.
The Symposium opened with welcoming remarks from Prof. Zheng Yongping, Director of RISA, Chair Professor of Biomedical Engineering, and Henry G. Leong Professor in Biomedical Engineering. The programme featured keynote presentations by esteemed international scholars, including Prof. Wei-Peng Teo from Nanyang Technological University, who discussed compositional time-use as a mechanistic risk factor for dementia; Prof. Teresa Liu-Ambrose from the University of British Columbia, who shared findings on exercise to promote cognitive health in at-risk older adults; Prof. Liye Zou from Wuhan Sports University, who highlighted mechanistic pathways from sedentary behaviour to strategic exercise; and Prof. Zhang Li from Jinan University, who examined exercise in relation to neuroprotection and mental health. Leading scholars from PolyU also presented pioneering research spanning muscle-brain communication, ultrasound assessment, fall prevention, and smart lifestyle interventions.
The event concluded with an interactive panel discussion and closing remarks from Prof. Zheng Yongping, fostering vibrant dialogue on translating exercise neuroscience into actionable clinical and community practices. RISA and FHSS sincerely thank all speakers, moderators, and participants for their valuable contributions and support in making the inaugural symposium a resounding success.
