close
close

Need more reasons to go for a walk? Research says it can boost your brain | Health

Need more reasons to go for a walk? Research says it can boost your brain | Health

16 November 2024 19:36 IST

The study re-established that any movement, from going for a short walk to doing household chores, can increase cognitive processing speed.

Exercise is beneficial to health. It helps speed up metabolism, strengthen muscles and improve body functions. But did you know that exercising and doing simple movements can help boost brain function? recently to work Penn State, led by Jonathan Hakun, sheds light on this issue.

Simple actions like walking the dog or doing easy household chores can increase the brain's cognitive processing speed, the study notes. (Pexels)
Simple actions like walking the dog or doing easy household chores can increase the brain’s cognitive processing speed, the study notes. (Pexels)

Simple actions like walking the dog or doing easy household chores can increase the brain’s cognitive processing speed, the study notes. Cognitive processing speed refers to the speed at which the brain receives and processes information.

ALSO READ: Tips to encourage physical activity in our daily routines

Findings of the research:

The study was conducted on 200 middle-aged adults ages 40 to 65, half of whom were black or African American and 34% were Hispanic. Participants checked their physical activity on a smartphone app and participated in various brain games. It was observed that when participants engaged in simple physical routines, their cognitive processing speeds became four years younger.

The study’s lead author, Jonathan Hakun, an assistant professor of neurology and psychology at Penn State, explained in a university statement that we don’t need to hit the gym to reap the full benefits of movement. Sometimes doing very simple physical movements can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

ALSO READ: How much exercise do you really need each week: Are you keeping track?

Walking may help increase brain function.(Pexels)
Walking may help increase brain function.(Pexels)

Short bursts of movement can also improve brain function. Jonathan Hakun also added that our physical and cognitive abilities begin to decline with age. This can be opposed by action.

Movement and memory:

What is the connection between physical movement and memory?(Pexels)
What is the connection between physical movement and memory?(Pexels)

While physical movements had a positive effect on the brain’s cognitive processing speed, they had no effect on working memory (the way the brain stores information). This suggests that physical movement has a more immediate effect on the brain than long-term cognitive skills.

The study also reiterates that every movement is important. Any physical activity, from going for a short walk to doing household chores, can strengthen the brain.

ALSO READ: How just 30 minutes of walking a day can transform your physical and mental health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Catch every big hit,…

see more

Capture every big success, every wicket, with Crick-it, your one-stop shop for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls and much more. Discover now!.

Catch your daily dose Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, festivals, Trip, Relationship, Recipe and all others Lifestyle News On Hindustan Times Website and Apps.