There are now numerous studies showing that aerobic exercise triggers new cell growth in the brain’s hippocampus, thus improving memory. Recent research from Japan suggests that this benefit can occur from as little as a light 10-minute exercise session. Another study using MRI neuroimaging demonstrated that a single 30-minute exercise session increases activity in the brain. One trick for measuring the intensity of your workout is to use the “talk test.” During a light workout, it’s possible to carry on a normal conversation. At the medium level, your sentences become shorter. In a heavy workout, it’s hard to say more than “yes” or “no.”
Key Takeaways:
- The brain derived neurotropic factor or BDNF is described as a miracle compound for the brain which stimulates the neurons to give birth to new cells.
- When the author published the book, the Athlete’s way, in 2007, the idea of BDNF had not been born and no one knew that aerobic exercises improve memory.
- A recent study was found by the author which states that putting mice on a cardio regimen that lasts for six weeks stimulated neurogenesis.
“This research advances our understanding of the dose-response needed to activate brain circuits associated with semantic memory. Generally speaking, this refers to memories that relate to language, words, and names.”