Your Brain on Exercise

By The Better Brain Academy

Many people who want to excel in life know that they have to keep their brains healthy to do so. But true high performers take advantage of the brain/ mind/ body connection and use fitness and exercise to perform at their top level---not just physically, but mentally.

Physical exercise is key to maintaining brain health long term. In one multi-decade study, researchers found that more movement correlated with better cognition, even after controlling for other factors like brain pathology. Higher physical activity was associated with a statistically significant drop in dementia.

Here are some possible routes for the increased brain health and cognition seen in the studies:

1. Exercise improves cardiovascular health overall, & thus blood flow to the brain.

2. Exercise lowers inflammation which improves a wide array of physical and mental issues.

3. Exercise lowers stress hormones, and increases hormones associated with happiness or pleasure.

We understand that physical exercise is important, but what’s the best form of exercise for your brain?

The answer may surprise you. It seems that there isn’t a huge difference between different exercises and activities in terms of brain health benefits. Activity is activity, as far as the brain is concerned.

Any physical activity that you do on a regular basis can be beneficial. And different activities can engage your brain in different ways. A dance class will teach you new moves and engage your memory along with hand-eye coordination. A yoga class will also help you learn moves and poses but will often leave a lot of quiet time for meditation or contemplation. And a repetitive, solitary activity like swimming or running often allows for you to “zone out” and quiet the chatter of the brain as you focus on form.

Each has its own benefits and that is why my biggest recommendation is to try out as many forms of exercise as you’re interested in!

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The Better Brain Academy

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THE FINE PRINT

While there may be information on The Better Brain Academy website relating to certain conditions, should a medical condition exist, promptly see your own physician or health provider. The Better Brain Academy does not offer medical diagnosis. Information presented is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide or replace medical advice. The Better Brain Academy makes no claims that it can cure any conditions, including any conditions referenced on its website or in print materials, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, stress, sleep disorders, Alzheimer’s and dementia. If you take prescription medications for any of these conditions, you should consult with your physician before discontinuing use of such medications.

THE BETTER BRAIN ACADEMY

Your Brain on Exercise