We’ve long known about the physical health benefits of exercise, but studies are showing the benefits that physical exercise has on the brain. Regular aerobic activity is linked with increased cognitive abilities, including benefits in memory and learning.
Increased Cognitive Function
Many schools cut or greatly reduce physical education with the notion that more classroom time would increase student learning. However, several studies have shown a correlation between more time in physical education and improved grades and standardized test scores. A study published in 2007 was conducted by a group of researchers from the Medical College of Georgia who investigated the effects of aerobic exercise on cognitive function of overweight and sedentary children. After 15 weeks of regular exercise, test scores improved significantly from pre-trial results.
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Learn More About Fitness
- The Family Factor of Five: Making Time for Fitness (and Actually Doing It) [8]
- The 7 Habits of Highly Successful Fitness Programs [9]
- Get Your Heart Pumping with These Free and Easy Tips [10]
- Life as We Grow It: Fitness as a Life Skill for Special Needs Populations [11]
- 4 Exercise Progressions, 5W’s, and an H [12]
- 4 Stages of Exercise Mastery [13]