Boost brain power in just 10 minutes

Published: by Interim HealthCare in Alzheimer’s

While it is widely believed physical activity can improve brain health and decrease risk of cognitive disease, researchers continue to examine what forms of exercise are most beneficial. Researchers at Western University in London, Canada recently conducted a study that found a short burst of exercise leads to immediate cognitive improvement.

While previous studies have shown the benefits of exercise on brain health, many of them suggest committing to a long-term workout regime. A recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease discovered moderate-intensity physical activity is safe and beneficial, but this new research suggests even just 10 minutes of aerobic activity has positive effects on the brain.

Quick brain power boost

The researchers grouped the participants by two different activities. One group sat and read a magazine for 10 minutes, while the other group exercised on a stationary bicycle. Before and after the experiment, researchers used eye-tracking equipment to analyze each participant’s reactions to a cognitive-demanding task. It targeted areas of the brain that focus on decision-making and inhibition.

The results showed immediate improvement in response time for those who had exercised. In some cases, participants experienced up to a 14 percent gain in cognitive performance. The researchers concluded that even a short duration of cycling or walking briskly can improve brain health, which in turn prevents the cognitive decline that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. According to one of the researchers, Matthew Heath, Kinesiology professor and graduate program supervisor: “Our study shows the brain’s networks like it. They perform better.”

Maintaining brain health

The results are especially significant for those whose physical health prevents them from committing to an intense, long-term workout routine. Just 10 minutes of physical activity could help those in early stages of dementia, even if they are less mobile than other patients.

Many sources support the benefits of exercise to engage the brain. A brain health campaign managed by the National Institute on Aging recommended getting the heart pumping for at least 30 minutes a day, whether it’s from briskly walking or playing with the grandkids. According to Harvard Medical School, getting physical exercise creates new nerve cells and increases the connections between brain cells for healthier aging.

In addition to breaking a sweat, the Alzheimer’s Association recommended other ways to reduce risk of cognitive decline, including reading, maintaining heart health, following a balanced diet, getting regular sleep and staying socially engaged. Researchers will continue to study these methods to determine more specific prevention methods, like this recent development in beneficial exercise routines.