Study Reveals Intermittent Exercise Boosts Cognitive Function For Lasting Brain Health; Know All About It Here

Last Updated:December 30, 2024, 15:29 IST

A study in Neurobiology of Learning and Memory reveals intermittent exercise offers surprising benefits over daily workouts.

This approach, involving short bursts of activity like weekend workouts, proved more effective for brain function than daily exercise.

A study published in Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, as reported by Times Now, offers a fresh perspective on exercise routines. While daily workouts have long been considered the gold standard for health, the research highlights the surprising benefits of intermittent exercise. This method, which involves engaging in short bursts of physical activity, even just on weekends, was found to improve brain function more effectively than regular daily exercise. The findings reveal that such occasional workouts can boost memory and activate genes that support long-term brain health, demonstrating that consistency in exercise frequency isn’t always necessary to achieve significant cognitive benefits.

Key Findings from the Study

The research involved 48 male mice, all aged 12 weeks, carefully assigned to either active or sedentary living conditions. These mice were then categorized into three distinct groups, each following a unique exercise routine:

• Continuous Exercise Group: This group participated in consistent running activity for 14 straight days without interruption.
• Intermittent Exercise Group: Mice in this group exercised for two days each week, interspersed with periods of rest, simulating an irregular workout schedule.
• Controlled Exercise Group: These mice engaged in physical activity for two days, followed by an extended sedentary period, mimicking sporadic exercise behaviour.

This division allowed researchers to examine the varying impacts of different exercise patterns on cognitive and physiological outcomes.

As reported by Times Now, the study found that both the continuous and intermittent exercise groups demonstrated improved cognitive abilities compared to the control group. Interestingly, the mice in the intermittent exercise group maintained superior memory performance over time, whereas the continuous exercise group showed a decline in cognitive gains. Researchers propose that the intermittent “weekend warrior” approach may be more effective in triggering certain genes and reopening the molecular memory window, leading to more sustained cognitive improvements.

How Exercise Boosts Brain Health

The study highlights the importance of exercise timing and type over intensity or volume in enhancing brain function. It was observed that the intermittent exercise schedule resulted in more lasting cognitive improvements, despite the daily distance run by the mice showing little influence on brain or memory performance. Researchers noted that the intermittent “weekend warrior” approach might better stimulate certain genes and reopen the molecular memory window, contributing to prolonged cognitive benefits.

Exercise Routines to Improve Cognitive Performance

Engaging in activities that support both physical and mental health can greatly enhance cognitive abilities. Below are some effective exercise regimens that promote brain health:

1. 1. Aerobic ExercisesActivities such as running, cycling, and swimming are excellent for increasing blood flow to the brain, which aids in the generation of new brain cells (neurogenesis). These workouts are also known to sharpen memory and improve attention spans, making them a key component of a brain-boosting routine.
2. 2. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)HIIT involves alternating between short bursts of intense activity and recovery periods, which not only enhances cardiovascular health but also boosts cognitive flexibility. Additionally, this regimen increases levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein vital for memory and learning processes.
3. 3. Yoga and MeditationMind-body practices such as yoga are highly effective in reducing stress hormones, improving focus, and enhancing emotional control. Regular yoga practice has been shown to increase grey matter density in areas of the brain associated with memory and cognitive functions, offering profound mental benefits.
4. 4. Strength TrainingResistance-based exercises, like weightlifting, contribute to better executive functioning, including skills like decision-making and problem-solving. Strength training has also been linked to a reduction in age-related cognitive decline, making it an excellent long-term investment for brain health.
5. 5. Coordination and Balance WorkoutsActivities such as dancing and tai chi require intricate movements that stimulate multiple areas of the brain. These exercises are particularly effective in enhancing memory, refining motor skills, and improving spatial awareness, offering a holistic approach to mental and physical wellness.

Incorporating these exercises into your routine can help foster a healthier brain, better focus, and improved cognitive resilience over time.