Three Ways Exercise Boosts Cognitive Abilities

The Three Ways Exercise Boosts Your Cognitive Abilities: A Deep Dive into the Connection between Physical Activity and Mental Acuity

Exercise: The Key to Bolstering Memory and Fending off Neurological Diseases

Have you ever forgotten where you put your keys or failed to remember a crucial name or date? These minor memory slips might be a sign that your brain needs a boost. According to a recent study from Wake Forest University, one of the most effective ways to enhance memory and cognitive function is through regular physical activity.

Cardiovascular Exercise Boosts Short-term Memory

The research, known as the EXERT trial, revealed that cardiovascular exercise has a positive impact on short-term memory. “It’s recommended to undertake at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity, combining moderate aerobic exercises with strength training”, says Claudia Misle, technical leader and coach at Smart Fit. Ideally, one should start with low intensity and progressively increase to avoid injuries and ensure effective body and mind adaptation.

Beneficial Impact of Exercise on Brain Health

Exercise not only directly boosts memory and thinking but also indirectly enhances these cognitive functions by improving mood, sleep, and reducing stress and anxiety. Common issues in these areas often cause or contribute to cognitive decline. The benefits of exercise on brain health manifest in three ways:

• Increased blood flow to the brain: Exercise leads to more blood and oxygen being pumped to the brain, promoting neuron repair and growth. This process strengthens neural connections, optimizing learning capacity, information processing, and memory recall.
• Stimulation of new neurons: Regular physical activity promotes this process, improving the brain’s ability to adapt to new challenges and retain long-term information.
• Reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases: A consistent exercise routine has been shown to lower the risk of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. Exercise also combats brain inflammation and oxidative stress, both contributing factors to cognitive decline.

Exercise: A Simple Solution to Brain Health

“Any exercise of any kind and in small amounts is probably ‘a very good idea’ for brain health,” says Cyrus A. Raji, Associate Professor of Radiology and Neurology at the University of Washington in St. Louis. His conclusion reinforces the powerful evidence that moving the body, even just a bit, can have a significant impact on brain health. It’s never too early or too late to start.