We know physical activity has countless health benefits, but what does the research say about its impact on cognitive function? Recent studies have sparked debate over the importance of exercise for both brain health and cognition. Here’s what the science says.
Examining the Link Between Exercise and Cognitive Function
In a recent study, a team of researchers questioned the importance of exercise for brain health and cognition, challenging the famous adage Mens sana in corpore sano (a healthy mind in a healthy body).
However, a new study of over a quarter million people shows that physical activity has a positive effect on cognitive functioning.
Moderate Physical Activity More Effective Than Vigorous for Cognitive Benefits
A recent study showed that moderate physical activity such as brisk walking and cycling is 1.5 times more effective at improving cognitive function than vigorous physical activity such as running and playing basketball.
This is due to the release of a protein called BDNF in the brain during exercise, which is responsible for the creation of new neurons, connections between neurons, and blood vessels.
Exercise Duration and Intensity Matter
When all types of physical activity were considered together, no effect on cognitive functioning was found, further emphasizing the importance of achieving moderate intensities to reap the cognitive benefits of physical activity.
To make sure you’re getting the most out of your exercise routine, focus on building up your duration and intensity over time.
Challenging the Benefits of Exercise
The first study, published on March 27, 2023, is a review of 24 meta-analyses that re-examines data from 11,266 healthy people using a more rigorous approach.
While all of the analyses concluded that exercise had a positive effect on cognitive function, the authors argue that their results suggest that these benefits are smaller than previously estimated.
Get Started Today – It’s Never Too Late
It’s never too late to get started – a 2019 study showed that starting to be active late in life has the same overall positive health effects as being active throughout life.
Healthy sleep habits and good diet choices should also be taken into account when considering overall cognitive functioning.
Genetics and DNA to the Rescue
A second study was released just four days later, involving nearly 350,000 people and providing scientific evidence for the cognitive benefits of moderate and vigorous physical activity.
This evidence is based on the two-sample Mendelian randomization method which takes advantage of random variations in our DNA.
