This is What Exercise Does to Your Brain
Need a little extra motivation to get to the gym this week? Well here it is – the latest research shows that exercise has major benefits for brain function. So as well as making your body feel great, a regular commitment to fitness will keep your brain happy too. Here’s how.
Improved Memory
Always forgetting what happened in that work meeting earlier in the day? Or coming home from the shops with everything except the one thing you really needed? A recent study from the University of British Columbia found that regular aerobic exercise boosts the function of the hippocampus, which is the region of the brain responsible for memory and learning.
What’s even better, is that the participants of the study only had to walk briskly for one hour, twice per week to notice a big difference in memory. So if you’re committing to exercising four or five days a week, you’re doing your memory a massive favour.
Better Sleep
It’s no secret that a great workout helps you sleep better, but what’s often forgotten is the plethora of benefits associated with better sleep. Improved mood and reduced levels of stress and anxiety all come with a good night’s sleep, and allow your brain to function at its very best. So next time you’re working up a sweat at the gym, know that you’re giving your mental health a significant boost.
Increase in Brain Size
This one we found really interesting. Dr Scott McGinnis, a neurology professor at Harvard Medical School referenced a number of studies when he said, “engaging in a program of regular exercise of moderate intensity over six months or a year is associated with an increase in the volume of selected brain regions.”
These studies show that the parts of the brain responsible for thinking and memory are often significantly larger in people who exercise regularly than people who don’t. So, you can happily throw out those concentration vitamins in place of a good old fashioned run.
Ready to Hit the Gym?
Interested in becoming a member at Planet Fitness? You can join now online. We have a number of memberships to suit your needs, from a Fast Track membership with just the basics to an all-inclusive Platinum membership.
If you would like any more information on our gym memberships, please feel free to call us on one of the numbers below. One of our friendly staff will be happy to help you decide what’s best for you.
Planet Lambton (02) 4047 2166
Planet Charlestown (02) 4047 2181
Planet Belmont (02) 4947 0944
Planet Gosford (02) 4324 4233
Planet Casula (02) 8397 4844