Abstract
We all know that physical activity is good for the heart and lungs, but is it also good for the brain? Research has shown that regular physical activity can boost brain performance in various different kinds of people, from children and young adults to older adults at-risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. These improvements in brain performance can be measured by tests of memory, thinking, and attention. It is thought that physical activity improves brain performance by changing both the way the brain functions and its size, a process known as neuroplasticity. In particular, physical activity may increase the size of a part of the brain called the hippocampus—the brain’s memory center. Importantly, the benefits of physical activity on the brain are seen at all ages, which means it is never too late to start exercising to help the brain. This research shows that being physically active may be an enjoyable way to help you improve your grades at school now and to keep your brain healthy throughout your life.
Highlights
We all know that physical activity is good for the heart and lungs, but is it good for the brain? Research has shown that regular physical activity can boost brain performance in various different kinds of people, from children and young adults to older adults at-risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease
It is well known that physical activity is important for living a long and healthy life
Our increasingly sedentary behavior has become a major problem in our society, with rates of obesity skyrocketing in recent decades, negatively impacting the health and well-being of many people
Summary
The way we process and think about the world around us. Cognitive functions include attention, memory, and ability to solve problems. People who exercise more have lower risk of many diseases that affect the body, such as heart disease. These days people in general are less active—or more “sedentary”—than ever before. This may be because of our increasing use of technology. We are spending more time indoors watching TV, playing video games, and on our computers. This means we have less time to be physically active. We will explore some of the reasons why physical activity may be more important for our health than we previously thought
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
