If the brain is an organ and not a muscle, then how does exercise affect the brain? People exercise to boost their glutes, but scientists prove that exercising can help your brain too. So yes, the weights you lift to build your arm muscles can make you smarter.
When you exercise, the heart rate increases, and more blood goes to the brain, triggering hormones that aid in the growth of brain cells, neurons. It also triggers the production of more feel-good hormones, dopamine, and endorphins to help you control your emotions. Besides, you get a better sleep when you exercise, which improves your brain’s function.
How does exercise affect the brain? Does it help or hinder your brain function, especially in old age? Learn how physical exercise affects your brain activity. Share on XNow, let’s look at how exercise affects your brain’s functioning.
Improves Memory and Other Long Term Benefits
When the heart rate increases during exercise, a lot of oxygen goes to the brain. Adequate oxygen in the brain reduces the chances of you suffering disorders that are associated with memory loss. Aerobic exercises are good for blood supply to different areas of the brain. Regular exercise also improves your long-term memory.
Picking the Right Exercises
Brain exercises will maintain your brain functionality regardless of your age. For example, working out in the morning affects the brain by improving your ability to keep new information. Activities suitable for your heart are also beneficial to your brain because they help supply more blood and oxygen to your grey matter.
Also, consider exercises that include coordination, like aerobics or dance class. These help repair damaged brain cells and boost growth factors in the brain. Besides, circuit workouts and jumping jacks are suitable for your cognitive functions.
Exercise Ideas for Seniors
Older adults tend to be slow because of health problems, weight, and weak muscles. Yet, physical exercise can keep them fit and add life to their years. Regular exercises like water aerobics, chair yoga, Pilates, and walking make their muscles stretch and in good health and improve their prefrontal cortex. As a result, the seniors can manage their emotions and improve memory, keeping them away from diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Improve Your Cognitive Functions
Besides physical exercise, you can improve your cognitive functions with simple brain exercises like puzzles, solitaire, and poker cards, and improve your vocabulary by writing down new words. These exercises also improve your learning and memory.
Contact us for more insights on how to improve your brain health through exercise.
