Exercise has long been celebrated for its overall health benefits, reducing heart disease risks and improving sleep. A new study adds a fascinating piece of evidence to this list: a potential boost in memory that extends up to 24 hours post-workout. This small-scale research, published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, tracked 76 individuals aged 50 to 83 over eight days. Activity trackers and daily cognitive tests showed those who engaged in more moderate to vigorous physical activity than usual performed better on memory assessments the following day.
Interestingly, simply being more active seemed to deliver cognitive perks. Participants who lessened their sedentary time and clocked in six more hours of sleep also scored higher on memory tests. Lead author Mikaela Bloomberg from University College London highlights the study’s implications, especially for older adults, emphasizing the importance of daily mental function maintenance. But what exactly triggers this memory enhancement through exercise, and how much activity is needed?
While the connection isn’t groundbreaking, as previous studies have hinted at similar outcomes, the duration of these benefits remained elusive. Now, researchers suggest that enhanced blood flow and neurotransmitter stimulation—helpers in memory and thought—play a role. Dr. Vernon Williams, a sports neurologist, explains that exercise may also encourage new neuron formation in the hippocampus, crucial for memory and learning, and promote neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to form new connections.
The study didn’t specify a minimum exercise requirement for cognitive benefits. Bloomberg notes that any increase in activity—even five extra minutes—could improve mental sharpness the next day. On the flip side, increased inactivity was linked to poorer memory outcomes. Although it’s a small study, Bloomberg suggests practical applications for these findings, such as maintaining a regular workout to sharpen memory as one ages.
Regular physical activity could be a valuable strategy for older adults to preserve cognitive function. Plus, if you have a big exam or presentation looming, exercising the prior day might give your memory a boost. Williams cautions that while increasing exercise beyond usual levels had clear benefits, a consistent routine is equally vital for brain health. He also points out that regular activity likely offers cognitive stimulation beneficial to memory.
As for the types of exercise that best support memory, moderate intensities like brisk walking, cycling, or jogging seemed effective. However, other studies, like one published in Communications Psychology, show that intense activities like cycling and HIIT also enhance memory and other cognitive functions.
Staying active is more than just a means to a healthy body—it plays a significant role in maintaining a sharp mind. For older adults, incorporating regular exercise could safeguard against cognitive decline. As the research suggests, a little extra effort in physical activity might offer a refreshing mental edge.
