Brain Fitness Exercise
We see the headlines on every magazine at the checkout counter extolling the virtues of exercise. It is an undisputed fact that it can add years to our lives. But now there’s evidence that it can also help our aging brains by taking years off. Studies are showing that brain fitness from regular aerobic exercise might delay or even reverse age-related brain deterioration. That includes the effects of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Studies done by the British Journal of Sports Medicine have shown that any type of physical activity that leaves you breathless can increase the brain’s ability to function and it increases the volume of brain tissue.
Additional reports from the University of Kansas Medical Center have shown that those diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s actually showed less deterioration of the brain in the areas linked to memory than those who did not exercise.
Unfortunately, there still is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease but it is certainly encouraging that with brain fitness exercises we might be able to stay sharper longer!
But don’t think that this exercise - brain fitness connection is only for senior citizens! Other studies have shown that the brain’s capacity for growth and development are improved with high levels of physical activity. Recent research has shown a link between exercise and improved memory, academic performance and executive function in the workplace.
Harvard professor and author, John Ratey has written about this research in “Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain” and states that exercise has a tremendous role in “preventing neurological disorders, improving our children’s ability to remain focused for learning and achieving mental calmness.”
So, as you can see, brain fitness exercise is beneficial at all age levels. This is why I think we should be so concerned about the generation of “couch potatoes” we seem to be raising. These studies reinforce the need to get kids of all ages involved in more physical activities. And it won’t hurt for adults and seniors to set a good example!
Maybe Pres. Obama should consider having all politicians in Washington engage in 30 minutes of aerobic activity every day — they could call it a “brain stimulus package!”
February 03 2009 02:02 pm | exercise workouts and senior exercise
July 21st, 2010 at 3:14 pm
Getting enough exercise is tough so I picked up a home rowing machine from http://www.rowingathome.com thanks guys works great
October 27th, 2010 at 1:13 am
its a good thought and tai chi for beginners is a great way to start getting your mind and body in focus.
June 27th, 2011 at 8:18 pm
You’ve got great insights about Staying Healthy, exercise, healthy eating, keep up the good work!