Whenever you partake in some exercise, you are probably hoping to achieve some weight loss or trying to build some muscle. But did you know that beyond the physical benefits, taking part in exercise is also good for your brain as well?
In some new research presented at the Cognitive Neuroscience Society (CNS) in San Francisco, a team out of the University of Iowa shared their findings on this subject.
How Does Exercise Improve Your Brain?
According to the report I read on earth.com here, even one single workout, your brain begins to illustrate positive change.
As told by Wendy Suzuki, a chair of a symposium at CNS on this topic, “There is a strong and direct link between physical activity and how your brain works.
People still do not link physical health to the brain and cognitive health; they think about fitting into a bikini or losing that last pound, not about all the brain systems they are improving and enhancing every time they work out.”
As told by Michelle Voss, who headed the team at the University of Iowa, just one workout can lead to positive effects on your cognition. Furthermore, consistent and prolonged exercise can lead to positive long-term shifts in your cognition. This data was gathered by performing MRI brain scans and memory tests on the participants before they began light to moderate exercise. The participants then underwent a 12-week schedule of exercise. It was found that the participants who showed the most improvement in their cognition and brain function after one exercise session also saw the most improvement after completing the 12-week training program.
Think about all of the routine and menial tasks that you have to do throughout the day. It’s hard to keep a focus with all of the stresses going on in your life. Now think about your exercise schedule or lack thereof. Could it be that getting some more exercise may be what you need to sharpen your brain a little bit?
Recommended Workout Programs
If you are wanting to get more exercise, but don’t know where to begin, I have reviewed a number of different training programs on this site. It can be a daunting task to go from couch potato to a workout warrior overnight, not knowing where to begin. That’s where rigid programs like these come in handy to guide you through getting started and sticking with the plan. Depending on what your fitness goals are, here are a number of workout programs I would take a look at.
About Shaun Hudson
Shaun Hudson loves sports, being outdoors, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. After many unsuccessful attempts to lose weight, he finally was able to drop 25 pounds and keep it off. The secret? He kept a journal of his activity, diet, and daily life. That journal changed his life, and has since evolved into this website. Read his full bio.