Exercise is GREAT for the Brain!

You know, instinctively, that exercise is good for you. And we’ve all been told that many, many times as well. While I may feel sore or even physically tired after a hard work out, somehow my body is aware that it has gained something. Probably some of this is because I actually feel the extra stretch and strength and some of this is because I feel a sense of accomplishment. “There, I did that!” I think it is very difficult to separate the physical and the psychic ‘goodness’ we receive from working out regularly.

I did not know, however, until I read an article from Outside Magazine, that exercise is good for my brain. Recent research has demonstrated that there are true measurable benefits; I found this fascinating.

Bigger Brain Waves:  Brain ‘waves’ really exist—it is when a lot of the neurons are firing in unison. Apparently, this happens more when you are exercising. The size and amount of the brain waves are increased and this extra activity is good for attention, information processing, and memory. As one researcher said, “The brain is in a different gear when the human being is in motion,”

Improved Vision: Research has also shown that your vision—and your perception—are better during and after exercise. You can literally see more clearly and distinguish detail better.

More Neurotransmitters: You know that when you exercise, your muscles use up more body fuel but the brain also begins taking up more glucose and carbohydrates, too. They have found that, with that extra boost, the brain builds more neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are the chemicals-primarily glutamate and GABA—that relay messages around your entire nervous system. Exercise, therefore, is helping your brain restock the resources it needs for effective functioning and communication with your entire body.

A Younger Brain: Studies have now shown that exercise increases the development of new neurons and the retention of those you have. Because this requires nutrients, the brain then displays blood vessel growth, which all makes your brain—on exercise—appear and function as younger. This develops over a long period of time when you are regularly working out but is incredibly valuable, as these structural changes improve your cognitive ability in ways that last. Apparently, those who are more fit have both increased ‘gray matter’ and increased ‘white matter’ in their brains when compared with healthy but sedentary people. More ‘matter’ improves general intelligence and executive function as well as balance and coordination.

A More Connected Brain: When you exercise and the brain is developing more neurons, it is also creating new connections between them. The research shows that these increased connections improve the functioning of those parts of the brain that do important things--some of which are negatively affected by aging--like memory, attention, decision-making, multitasking, and processing sensory information. They’ve shown that, even when resting, those who exercise have increased connectivity.

This was all new to me, but just further supports my attitude about fitness—that it is a critical part of our greater wellness. Like our neurons, it is all connected--fitness, nutrition, attitude and, yes, brain function—and all part of pursuing wellness for our ‘best life’.