Exercise Your Brain

by: AndreaDow
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Word Count: 251

Thursday, April 5th

An article in Newsweek written by Mary Carmichael helps blast the "dumb jock" stereotype. Charles Hillman, a typical jock himself, started to wonder whether there is a link between muscles and memory. He and his colleagues decided to gather 259 Illinois 3rd and 5th graders to check their fitness ability (basics like sit and reach, push-ups, sit-ups) and compare that to their math/reading scores on statewide standardized test. Sure enough, the tykes with the fittest bodies had the fittest brains!

In March, researchers announced that they saw growth in human brain cells simply by putting subjects on a three-month aerobic workout program. Researchers have also found vigorous exercise to boost the brain's network making it run faster and more efficiently. Scientists are also finding clues that exercise can help ward off Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders. Who new that strengthening the noggin was as simple as jogging?! The extra heart pumping from your workout sends blood to the body and more importantly, the brain. More blood equals better oxygen delivery and nourished, healthy brain cells.

What happens when you stop working out? Within a month of inactivity, the connections between the brain cells do not function as well. Remember, use it or lose it! Try to get the kids you know interested and excited about exercise. Encourage your child's school to keep PE classes as part of the curriculum, too. Oh yeah, you still have to go to the library to keep your new brain cells sharp.

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