Does Exercise Boost Brain Power?

It’s no secret that exercise releases feel good endorphins that boost the mood, combat depression and generally make us feel on top of the world. Yet according to the latest research, exercise could also make you smarter. It’s an incredibly exciting suggestion, yet is there any proof to back up the claim? Cognitive scientists claim the answer is yes! Want to know more? Read on for four ways that exercise boosts brain power.

Increases energy levels

When a human partakes in physical activity they’ll enjoy stronger muscles, better endurance and an increase in overall energy levels. This fosters clearer thinking which can help with problem solving and innovation. Just 15 minutes of movement a day helps the body to create energy on a cellular level.  

Helps the brain stay focussed

According to Dr. John Ratey, author of “Spark – The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain” exercise can sharpen brain focus for up to three hours. Physical activity triggers a process called neuroplasticity which sees the brain improve itself using protein and blood flow. This can help the mind to prioritise tasks, block out distractions, augment concentration and even prevent Alzheimer’s.

Improves memory

In a recent article published in the American College of Sports Medicine scientists maintained that exercise helps to improve memory. As part of an experiment students were asked to memorise a series of letters, then choose between running, lifting weights or sitting. Interestingly, the students who chose physical activity performed better than their stationary counterparts.

Boosts productivity

Want to get the absolute most out of every day? Exercise could be the answer! Physical activity helps to enhance performance, improve time management skills and help the brain stay focussed on the task at hand. Research has shown that office workers who exercise during lunch breaks enjoy higher productivity levels.

The research speaks for itself and we’re categorically convinced that exercise is a brilliant way to boost brain power!

Brain science is a fascinating arena and there are exciting new developments emerging all the time. Want to know more about what’s on the horizon? ‘Advanced Bio-luminescence Microscopy’ delves into the complexities of the ‘daily clock’ found in the hypothalamus of the mammalian brain. The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) acts as an internal timekeeper that is synchronised to change in environmental illumination. The eye registers the level of daylight, then conveys information back to the SCN via nerve pathways and chemical secretion.