We all know, or have at least heard, that exercise is good
for you. It reduces cholesterol,
improves cardiovascular health, promotes weight loss, strengthens muscles and
improves one’s overall sense of well-being. But did you know it also makes you smarter?
John Ratey, associate professor of psychiatry
at
Harvard
Medical
School
and author of "Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the
Brain", says that exercise stimulates our grey matter to produce what he
calls “Miracle-Grow” for the brain. His
research shows how even regular brisk walks can boost memory, alleviate stress,
enhance intelligence and calm aggression. Physical activity boosts blood flow to the part of the brain that is
responsible for memory and learning, promoting the production of new brain
cells.
You don’t have to become a marathon runner to benefit your
brain. The mainstay of exercise is
simple – try any of these moves to smarten up.
Take a brisk walk to increase your heart rate, boost oxygen
intake and strengthen your core muscles.
Take the stairs. If
you have stairs in your work environment, take advantage of them. Put on your
walking shoes and make your way to the top floor to boost your heart rate and
strengthen your legs and back and improve balance.
Join a group. Many
communities have walking, jogging, biking or hiking groups at varied
levels. Exercising with a group promotes
accountability and provides valuable social connections.
Hit the gym! Classes
like spin, step and other cardio focused exercises are ideal for those who are
motivated by a structured exercise environment.
Learn a new hobby. Pick up tennis, racquetball or embark on a race training program to meet
new people and discover what your capable of. You can do more than you think and boost your brain power in the
process. For a free, and specific,
workout plan, check out: Couch Potato to 5k
