Exercise is a brain booster!

Wednesday, October 10, 2012 - 09:23

One of the most interesting findings in the last few decades is that the increased oxygen that the brain gets while exercising is almost always accompanied by an upswing in It is interesting to note that these studies determined that the intensity of the exercise mattered less than the frequency.  It was found that you don't even have to go for long periods of time, any amount of movement creates a positive response within the brain.  Basically, you can break up the time you spend exercising as long as you get out and move your body.

There’s plenty of evidence that suggest that regular aerobic exercise also helps the brain by reducing stress and anxiety and decreases the chance of  diabetes and cognitive decline.

The positive effects of regular exercise with young adults and brain function is just beginning to be understood; however, there is evidence suggesting a significant relationship between physical activity and increased cognitive function through to adulthood.  This means that no matter how smart you are, your brain gets better with physical activity. 

References from the SIRC Collection: 

1. Carpentier J. Keys to Enhance Brainpower. American Fitness. May 2010;28(3):62-63.
2. Fernández Á. Healthy brain aging: why we need to retool 'Use it or lose it'. Journal On Active Aging. July 2009;8(4):40-43.
3. Kleim J. Exercise and the Brain: Exciting discoveries underscore how exercise benefits brain health and boosts lifelong learning. IDEA Fitness Journal.March 2011;8(3):74-76. 
4. Kravitz L. Exercise and the Brain: It Will Make You Want to Work Out. IDEA Fitness Journal. February 2010;7(2):18-19.
5. Lifelong Aerobic Training Preserves Brain Health. IDEA Fitness Journal. October 2011;8(9):74.
6. Study Finds Exercise Improves Thinking. Parks & Recreation. December 2007;42(12):18.
7. Roy B. Exercise and the Brain: More Reasons to Keep Moving. ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal. September 2012;16(5):3.