We all know that exercise strengthens our muscles and improves our endurance, but did you know it also has a profound impact on your brain?
Here are some powerful ways exercise benefits your brain.
Reduces the risk of depression
Physical activity triggers the release of mood-boosting neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
Regular exercise has been shown to have effects similar to antidepressant medication, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression over time.
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It improves focus and attention
Dopamine released during exercise enhances motivation and concentration.
Studies indicate that adults can experience improved focus for up to an hour after engaging in physical activity.
It strengthens memory
The hippocampus, a brain region critical for memory, naturally shrinks with age.
However, research has found that regular aerobic exercise can actually increase its size, improving memory retention and reducing age-related cognitive decline.
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Exercise helps manage stress
Physical activity triggers a temporary increase in cortisol, the stress hormone, but over time, regular workouts help lower cortisol levels overall.
This makes the brain more resilient to stress and its harmful effects.
It enhances learning ability
Exercise stimulates the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports brain cell growth and connectivity.
This helps improve learning capacity and cognitive function.
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It boosts creativity
Increased blood flow to the brain during exercise enhances cognitive flexibility and creative thinking.
Studies have shown that people generate more innovative ideas while walking compared to sitting still.
Exercise protects against dementia
Multiple long-term studies suggest that regular physical activity reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
High-intensity exercise, in particular, has been linked to a 35 % lower risk of developing dementia.
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It improves brain blood flow
When you exercise, your heart pumps more blood to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that support brain function.
Over time, this leads to the growth of new blood vessels in key cognitive areas.
It helps prevent cognitive decline
Regular moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, has been shown to slow down cognitive aging.
Even small amounts of activity can have a significant impact on maintaining mental sharpness.
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Strength training benefits the brain
While aerobic exercise is often highlighted for cognitive benefits, strength training has also been found to protect against cognitive decline.
Lifting weights helps maintain brain function and may even reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
This article is based on information from iForm.