Have you ever experienced unexpected twitching in your eye? Eye twitching (eyelid myokymia) is a spasm of the eyelid. Although these spasms are generally harmless, they can be quite annoying or bothersome. 

You rely on your eyes to see and experience the world. If you don’t care for them, poor eye health can lead to disease, damage, and even blindness. 

If you or your loved ones spend time close to a smart device, computer, or even a book, they may be at a higher risk of developing myopia, often called nearsightedness.

*Updated January 2025

We often associate exercise with benefits like weight management, cardiovascular health, and improved mood. However, did you know that regular physical activity might also help protect your vision?

Protect your vision by moving your body

Maintaining an active lifestyle isn’t just beneficial for your body. It can positively impact your eye health too. Several studies have indicated that there’s a correlation between regular exercise and a reduced risk of certain eye conditions that may cause vision loss.

Exercise may protect your vision by lowering risk of age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common cause of vision loss among older adults. While AMD doesn’t cause complete blindness, it may make it difficult to read, drive, and even see faces.

Now, researchers may have found a way for people to lower their risk of developing AMD or slow down its progression through exercise.

A study from The Scientific Journal of The Royal College of Ophthalmologists found that engaging in regular physical activity has been associated with a decreased risk of developing AMD. In the longitudinal study, researchers found that participants who engaged in an active lifestyle over 15 years reduced their risk of developing AMD by 70%.

While the reasons behind the association aren’t clear, the study suggests that “Physical inactivity has been associated with the development of precursors for AMD in the form of macular drusen and may facilitate the progression of vision loss and AMD severity through inflammation and endothelial dysfunction.”

Exercise can protect your vision by reducing the likelihood of developing glaucoma

Physical activity may not only safeguard against AMD. The same study found that moderate exercise may have a protective effect against glaucoma as well.

Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a significant risk factor for glaucoma, and exercise has been shown to help regulate and reduce this pressure.

In a study from the Indian Journal Ophthalmology, published in the National Library of Medicine, researchers found that study participants had a reduction in intraocular pressure after aerobic exercise (AE) in both healthy and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) eyes.

The study goes on to suggest that “These results laid down some groundwork for the possibility of the potential use of AE as a beneficial lifestyle modification for IOP reduction in POAG patients.”

These findings are especially significant for people who aren’t benefiting from IOP reducing medications or surgeries.

Exercise protects your vision by promoting better blood circulation in the eyes

Exercise promotes better blood circulation throughout the body, including the tiny blood vessels in the eyes. Adequate blood flow ensures that the eyes receive essential nutrients and oxygen, contributing to overall eye health. This improved circulation can potentially reduce the risk of conditions related to poor blood flow in the eyes, such as diabetic retinopathy.

Protect your vision with more than just exercise

While exercise can help to protect your vision, it’s equally important to get regular eye checkups. Comprehensive eye exams can detect potential issues early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.

Prioritize your health, stay active, and don’t forget to schedule regular eye examinations to keep your vision sharp and clear for years to come.

If you want more ideas to protect your vision, read “The sun and our vision: Prevent eye damage from the sun.”