Is physical exercise connected to brain performance
Sources (2 videos)
- 1
Dr. John Ratey speaking at the Neuroplasticity and Education conference - October 25, 2013
John Ratey on Eaton Arrowsmith · YouTubeWatch original - 2
Boost Attention & Memory with Science-Based Tools | Dr. Wendy Suzuki
Dr. Wendy Suzuki on Andrew Huberman · YouTubeWatch original
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Summary
Physical exercise is strongly connected to improved brain performance. Improving physical fitness enhances cognitive function, academic standing, and IQ scores by increasing brain activity, growing memory and learning centers like the hippocampus, and stimulating the prefrontal cortex. Additionally, exercise triggers the production of BDNF to support neural growth, optimizes the ability to learn, activates attention and memory systems, and helps prevent cognitive decline.
Research shows a strong connection between physical exercise and brain performance 1.
It is observed that improving physical fitness, particularly aerobic or cardiovascular function, leads to higher IQ scores, enhanced cognitive performance, and better academic standing 1. When individuals engage in physical activity, brain activity increases and specific areas responsible for memory and learning, such as the hippocampus, grow. Furthermore, exercise stimulates the prefrontal cortex, the executive center of the brain, and triggers the production of beneficial substances like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports neural growth and plasticity.
Experts suggest that fitness helps optimize the ability to learn, turns on attention and memory systems, and serves as an effective way to prevent cognitive decline.
Make exercise a daily habit to boost learning: increase your aerobic fitness (e.g., regular cardio) to improve attention, memory, and overall cognitive performance.