A recent study has found that engaging in mild exercise for just three months can enhance brain function. Previous research has focused on the impact of aerobic exercise routines lasting between six months to one year, but motivating people to stick to these rigorous programs can be challenging. However, this new study suggests that even short mild exercise sessions, such as yoga and walking, can stimulate the brain and lead to short-term cognitive performance improvements.
The study, published in a journal referenced as DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00816-3, aimed to explore the impact of mild aerobic exercise on brain function over a longer period of time and the underlying mechanisms involved. The researchers randomly split a group of 125 healthy individuals between the ages of 55 and 78 into two groups: an exercise group that cycled at low intensity three times a week for three months, and a control group that continued with their usual daily routine.
To assess the participants’ executive function, the researchers used a Stroop test and evaluated prefrontal cortex activity using functional near-infrared spectroscopy before and after the three-month period. The results revealed significant improvements in executive function in the exercise group compared to the control group. Interestingly, when the data were analyzed by age, the benefits of mild exercise were particularly pronounced in the older individuals between the ages of 68 and 78.
The study also identified an increase in activation of the prefrontal cortex as an underlying brain mechanism supporting the improvement in executive function. This means that the participants in the exercise group exhibited higher executive function with relatively low brain activation. These findings suggest that mild exercise for just three months can strengthen the functional networks of the brain, allowing for more efficient utilization of the prefrontal cortex during cognitive tasks like the Stroop test.
Overall, these results highlight the positive effects of stress-free mild exercise over a three-month period on prefrontal cortex strengthening and cognitive function improvement. This research provides encouraging evidence that individuals of all ages can benefit from engaging in regular mild exercise to enhance their brain function. So, whether it’s taking a leisurely walk in the park or trying out some gentle yoga, incorporating mild exercise into your routine could be a simple yet effective way to boost your cognitive abilities.