A research examination of some 111 studies was effected by Drs. Kramer, Voss, Nagarnatsu, and Liu-Ambrose (first two from the University of Illinois-Urbana, the latter two from University of British Columbia) and published in the Journal of Applied Physiology. Obviously, literature searches do not provide new information. Rather, they serve to coalesce existing information into patterns and conclusions, as was provided by this compilation.
The results: aerobic exercise and strength training are vital components of brain and cognitive health in young children and older adults. For younger adults, the data were inconclusive. And, not only for younger adults, but for everyone, the recommendations of this paper call for additional research to examine the mechanisms by which the exercise proves beneficial.
Regarding the children studies, inactivity is associated with lower academic performance. Moreover, exercise programs yielded augmented memory, decision-making authority, and attention. The executive functions (multi-tasking, planning) were clearly improved, and the brain structure volume (physical size) was increased. This data, for children, was unambiguous in both classroom and laboratory settings. As such, aerobic exercise provides children with a head start toward future cognitive development.
For seniors, the results were also clear. The aerobic exercise all improved the function of the prefrontal cortex. This area, which affects multi-tasking, planning, and inhibition processes of the brain, was directly affected by the exercise regimen. Gray matter increases in the brain also, as a result of these exercises.
The research also examined animal models. These were critical to discern what neurochemical aspects are involved as a result of aerobic exercise. These data demonstrated augmented production of neurochemicals (BDNF, IGF-1), which are critical for the growth, differentiation, and repair of brain cells (as well as their survival).
The studies that examined the use of resistance training, as opposed to aerobic exercise, did not provide unequivocal results.
(It should also be noted that human brains- and only human brains among the animal species- shrink as we age. This reduction in volume, by 15% or so, is associated with dementia, memory loss/leakage, and depression. Regardless of age, stress also reduces our brain size. And, as we have reported [listed below], exercise reduces stress.)
And, even with the lack of conclusive data, due to the wide variance of the studies for the young adults, it is clear that our sedentary lifestyle not only contributes to obesity, but it renders us less capable to make the decisions we need to make to grow our companies, improve society, and develop innovative products.
We’ve already discussed the need to walk at least six miles a week to keep our brains active. On another occasion, it’s benefits for breast cancer recovery, dialysis patients, Parkinson’s, and aggressive behavior
So what are you waiting for? Get moving- literally and figuratively.
And here I am thinking all along that exercise is only good for the body and not really the mind or I’m just plain naive about these stuff. Thanks Roy for this enlightening thoughts.
Gosh,
I better get rid of some of that grey matter and getting going. I wonder if this is why we reach overwhelm when we have too many things piled up?
Thanks for sharing.
I don’t know, Ria.
Isn’t juggling all those tasks a form of exercise 🙂
Thanks for dropping in and commenting. Exercise your fingers and drop in again, soon!
Roy
So why don’t people move more?? It is beyond me!! It is so simple and yet, so tough for so many. I couldn’t imagine not exercising for the reasons you have mentioned here, not to mention all the other benefits that are associated with it!
Not surprising for you, Holly.
I always wanted one of those tv’s that made you pedal to get the screen to work. But, not willing to move to the Arizona jails to get one…
Thanks for your comments.
Roy
This is great info, Roy, and very timely as I have spent more time at the computer in July than ever.
OK. Stand up- 10 jumping jacks. Then, back to typing.
(Aren’t you glad I don’t have my webcam on?)
Thanks for dropping in and your comments, Bonnie…
Roy
Hi Roy, This post rings true to me. I have two little kids and keeping them active is a must. We spend many hours outdoors walking and playing. Also, my husbands grandfather passed away at age 96. He walked everyday of his life and I really think that is what kept him growing strong his entire life!
Glad you left your comments, Traci. Your post also brings up the 6 miles of walking we need to do to keep our brains and bodies fit..
So glad you added to the discussion. Keeping active helps us keep alert!
Roy
Loved learning more about this, Roy! The brain results are especially moving — a healthy mind is super important to me. A smoothly-functioning brain is something we all take for granted!
I can tell you are not in the States, Samantha. There’s no way you can look at Congress and think that we take smoothly-functioning anything for granted 🙂
Roy
Once again – fascinating information! I wonder what would happen if I visualized actually doing aerobic activity???
Hmm. Maybe it fakes a channel pathway- and blocks it…
Seriously though, it’s the activity that promotes brain function. At the very least, we have to walk 6 miles a week to keep the Alzheimer’s scourge at bay.
Roy
Interesting Roy! I know my 3 yr old keeps me hopping! The brain is so fascinating though isn’t it! Sure glad I don’t have to worry about it though since I am neither young nor old! LOL, just kidding!! 🙂
Jen:
Keep letting your child drag you are around. It’s getting the stimulation it needs- and making sure you get some at the same time 🙂
Thanks for dropping in and commenting!
Roy
The importance of exercise yet again! And yet again, I say the same thing – it helps me get rid of my anger… at least stops me from landing punches! So onto the elliptical again!
And, in my case, Hajra, it keeps me from joining the circus as a “large” man, too!
Roy
Kelli:
Everything is connected. It is why we can’t just buy a drug or food and become healthy overnight. Gut mind heart lungs…the shin bone is connected to the …
Roy
the research show that the exercise running and walk is very beneficals
Thanks for the visit.
This is great info! Thanks for posting
So glad that you liked the post! Come back often.