When most people think about the benefits of aerobic activity, they think of it strengthening the heart and lungs, and improving circulation. However, in addition to these physical benefits, aerobic exercise can boost brain function which helps to improve emotional health, cognition, and anti-aging memory capabilities. Practically any activity that requires continuous physical activity can help enhance brain power.
- Emotional Health – Aerobic exercise, including walking, running, or jogging can help to relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety. Aerobic activities ease depression by releasing endorphins and neurotransmitters that lift your mood. Dancing, swimming and cycling are other activities that can provide a release of those “feel-good” endorphins.
- Cognitive Health – Aerobic activity is said to stimulate cell growth in the brain; it has a positive impact on cognitive abilities in both animals and humans. According to one study, aerobic activities were successful in boosting academic performance in obese and overweight children. Activities available in Rochester Hills, Michigan like soccer, basketball, and tennis are high-aerobic exercises that can help to improve cognition.
- Anti-Aging Health – It is now believed that aerobic exercise can have an anti-aging effect on the brain in older adults. According to a study reported in the “Journal of Gerontology”, significant increases were seen in white and gray matter in older adults that participated in aerobics training. Notable improvements include the ability to switch between tasks and increased memory capability. Since the size of the brain starts to decrease upon the third decade in a person’s life, regular aerobic activity could be a benefit to many aging adults.
