A new study reveals that, for healthy older adults, even a little exercise may strengthen memory. The finding suggests that our brains function better even after a single moderate workout. People who exercise routinely may improve their brain’s functioning all the more.
The study published in the Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society looked at the value of short-term exercise, 30 minutes of activity on a stationary bicycle. After the exercise, study participants were told a list of famous and non-famous names and asked to tag them accordingly while inside an MRI machine.
Researchers found “greater brain activation” and ability to recall famous people in the participants who used the stationary bicycle than in the participants in the control group. The small study involved 26 participants between the ages of 55 and 85.
The authors believe that the benefits of exercise can grow over time, further enhancing our brain’s ability to function and our recall abilities.
A large number of other studies reveal the benefits of exercise for the brain and the body. Aerobic exercise that brings your heart rate up and gets you sweating is particularly good for your mental and physical health.
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