Better brain function with exercise? The evidence is clear. Not
only can you get long-term benefits for your brain from
exercise, but you can boost you brain power in the next ten
minutes. Exercise can help your brain work more efficiently and
actually make you smarter.
The thinking ability of subjects was tested in one study. After
these tests, the subjects ran on a treadmill for thirty minutes.
When their hearts returned to normal resting levels they took
the follow-up tests. During all tests the subjects were
connected to an EEG (elctroencephalogram), in order to track
their brainwaves.
Researchers found that exercising had increased the speed their
decision-making. It was considered a significant difference
(beyond normal statistical variation). They also found that the
subjects answered more accurately after the exercise than before.
Participants were between 18 and 24 years old, but researchers
think the findings will hold true for other age groups as well.
One study showed that just ten minutes of moderate exercise each
day can improve mood and reduce fatigue. Brain function
specifically wasn't tested, but it seems likely that less
fatigue means better brain power.
Best Exercise For Brain Function?
The research has focused more on the duration of exercise more
than on the specific type. Aerobic exercise seems to be the
common element in the studies that have shown improvements in
brain function, however. It's likely that running, bicycling,
swimming, dancing and any other aerobic exercise will have the
same effect.
Notice that ten minutes of exercise is apparently enough to have
effects on the brain. Also, while most scientists probably
expected to find better brain function from long-term exercise
programs, the study using treadmills showed an immediate effect.
In other words, get up and run around, and you can be smarter
ten minutes from now.
Some people find that walking is a great way to boost brain
power. There are the aerobic benefits now being proven by recent
studies, but there seems to be something more. It may be due to
it's rythmic and relaxing nature that many people report their
clearest and most creative thinking when walking.
We already knew that exercise was good for sleeping better, a
healthier immune system, weight control, and a lower risk of
heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Now you can add brain power
to that list. Why not take a walk today for better brain
function?
About the author:
Steve Gillman has been studying brainpower and related topics
for years. For more on
How To Increase Brain
Power, and to get the Brain Power Newsletter and other free
gifts, visit:
http://www.IncreaseBrainPower.com
