For all students and lifetime learners out there, what if you were told a simple addition to your daily schedule could make you smarter?
Several research studies have been conducted to prove a relationship between increased brain functioning and exercise. In one such study, scientists in the early 1990’s gave one group of mice unlimited wheel access (“runners”) and another group with no wheel access (“non-runners”). When comparing the two groups, scientists found that the “runners” had twice the amount of new nerve cells within the hippocampus region–the region of the brain that aids in learning and memory–than the “non-runners” group. But how could this information translate to an increase in learning and memory for humans?
To gain a better understanding of how a human’s brain is affected by exercise, Judy Cameron, a neuroscientist at the University of Pittsburgh, led a series of trials with middle-aged and older monkeys to run on a treadmill for one hour a day for five days a weeks for a period of five months–this exercise regimen for the monkeys imitates the recommended exercise for an adult. After cognitive tests, Cameron noted that the “runner” monkeys learned new things twice as fast as their sedentary counterparts–this may be due in part to the increased blood flow to the brain from the development of new blood vessels which allows for greater oxygen and nutrient delivery.
However, Cameron and her team later examined the “runner” monkeys three months after this study was ended and found that those who had increased blood vessels had returned to their original blood vessel count. This study indicates that, indeed, exercise can improve brain functioning (and make you smarter), but your exercise routine must remain consistent to maintain these results.
At a Glance:
- Exercise creates more blood vessels which increases the amount of blood flow to the brain to aid in oxygen and nutrient delivery.
- Learning and memory capabilities are strengthened when increased blood flow occurs.
- Consistently exercising maintains these results yielding in smarter individuals!
Get out there and get running collegiettes, especially during midterms!
For more tips on exercise and nutrion, check Riley out at Happiest Healthiest and follow her on Instagram @happiesthealthiest .