Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and intellectual activity – John F. Kennedy
Everyone knows that physical activity is sure to help you lose weight and tone your body. However, the benefits of exercising reach far beyond physical improvements. Studies have shown that exercising on a regular basis helps to boost your brain power! Not only does it help to improve memory, but it also creates better moods and increases productivity. Exercising increases the flow of oxygen to your brain which in turn allows your body and brain to function at higher levels.
1. Learning and Memory
Exercise is a sure way to improve the learning and memory functions of your brain. Exercise improves memory and problem solving abilities by about 20 percent for those who exercise regularly. It is also known to increase levels of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine helps motivate you to learn new things and gives you a feeling of satisfaction when you have accomplished what you have set out to do. Furthermore, according to the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, regular exercise can help to reduce one’s chances of getting Alzheimers by almost 50 percent.
2. Better Mood
Exercising helps to keep you in a better mood and improve your outlook on life. After just a few minutes of exercise, you could experience the mood enhancing affects of physical activity. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins. Endorphins interact with brain receptors that trigger positive feelings throughout your body. Furthermore, your body releases chemicals that help to relieve stress and keep you in a euphoria-like state even after you have finished exercising.
3. Productivity
Exercise helps to increase productivity in your day-to-day life. When your body is active, your brain receives increased levels of oxygen and blood. This allows your brain and body to act as if you have just had a large cup of coffee; it wakes your body up and helps to motivate you to do more with your day. The alert feelings that you will experience after exercising will push you to not only accomplish more at work or at home, but also to complete those projects more precisely and effectively.
There are many reasons to exercise, but keeping your brain in tip-top shape should be the very first! Exercising on a regular basis can help to improve the longevity and quality of your life. Physical activity can increase your memory, reduce your chances of getting Alzheimers, improve your mood, and allow you to be more productive. Let this be your motivation to get active today!
