Jogging Your Brain

While it may be tempting sometimes to become one with the couch, that isn’t a good idea for either your body or your mind. 

Researchers are just beginning to explore how being physically active may counteract the effects aging can have on the brain.

How Exercise Affects the Brain

What scientists have found is that exercise influences the brain’s actual structure as well as how it functions; how well blood circulates within the brain is affected as well.^†

One of exercise’s most profound effects? It helps make new connections between different regions of the brain and supports the growth of new brain cells, or neurons.^†

In fact, exercise has been shown to prod growth of the hippocampus—a part of the brain critical to memory formation—in older adults.^†

In terms of boosting brainpower, “it’s a very profound effect,” says Florida Atlantic University’s Henriette van Praag, PhD.

In studies of people, van Praag says, regular exercise has improved learning and memory.

For example, researchers writing in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that older adults with memory problems saw improvements after a year of aerobic workouts. Another study found that sedentary women who took up high-intensity interval exercise experienced improved brain function.^†

Even a Little More Exercise Helps

You don’t have to work out intensely for hours in order to see these benefits.

For example, one study found that each additional hour of light activity netted the equivalent of 1.1 years less brain aging. Even a single half-hour exercise session improved brain function, specifically the ability to recall words, concepts and numbers.^†

In addition, scientists are looking into the possible brain benefits of other forms of physical activity. Tai chi was found to boost memory and cognition among older adults; yoga has also been found to promote better brain function.^†

The bottom line: Stay on the move to keep your brain in peak condition.