HIIT Workouts May Boost Brain Health in Later Years
Aerobic Exercise May Improve Memory and Thinking Skills
Regular exercise has long been touted for its physical benefits, but new research suggests it may also boost your brain health for years to come. A study published in the journal Aging and Disease found that older adults who engaged in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) had increased activity in the hippocampus, a brain region involved in memory and learning.
Moderate Exercise Also Beneficial
But don't worry if HIIT isn't your thing. A separate study published in the same journal found that even replacing sitting or gentle movement with less than 10 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity can protect your brain. According to lead author Dr. David Raichlen, "These findings suggest that it's not necessary to do a lot of exercise to get benefits for the brain."
Any Type of Exercise Helps
A wealth of recent research, including two new studies published this spring, suggests that any type of exercise that raises your heart rate can benefit your brain. For example, a study in the journal Neurology found that walking for 45 minutes three times per week improved memory and thinking skills in people with mild cognitive impairment.
How Exercise Benefits the Brain
Physical activity may benefit your brain in a number of ways, each of which in turn helps your brain to retain memory and optimal function. For example, exercise:
- Increases blood flow to the brain
- Stimulates the release of neurotransmitters that are important for memory and learning
- Helps to create new brain cells
- Reduces inflammation, which has been linked to cognitive decline
Start Exercising Today
If you're not currently exercising, talk to your doctor before starting any new fitness program. Once you get the go-ahead, start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts over time. Just a little bit of exercise can make a big difference for your brain health.
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