Can You Be Stronger AND Smarter?
The Link Between Physical Activity and Better Brain Function in School
Written by Arielle Bloom
Can Working Out Really Make You Smarter?
When you’re laid out at the end of a workout, trying to do simple math to add up your total reps can seem daunting. In that case, is there any truth to the idea that physical activity can actually improve cognitive function? There have been numerous studies conducted in this area to discover whether or not physical activity is actually correlated with higher academic performance. Many of these studies have produced results that show an improvement in cognitive function after participation in physical activity when studied in school-age children. If physical activity really does improve brain function, thus increasing the ability to understand and retain information, why are we cutting so many physical education and extracurricular programs in schools?
How We Get Smarter by Getting Stronger
Regular exercise can increase hormone activity in integral organs in the body, especially the brain. The hormone in the brain most greatly affected by the introduction of regular exercise is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which, along with other hormones in the brain, improves mental performance as well as the ability to learn. Regular exercise can also improve memory. Because exercise reduces insulin resistance and inflammation, BDNF and other hormones can stimulate the growth of new blood vessels in the brain as well as new blood cells. With the growth of new blood cells, the brain can function at a higher level for a longer period of time, extending the lasting effects of regular exercise well into adulthood. With these incredible benefits, the decrease in physical education programs and extracurricular activities is trivial.
The Case for Physical Activity
Studies show that there is a positive association between participation in school-based physical activity programs and academic performance, however we still see a decrease in programs that support physical activity in schools. Many have made the argument to increase the amount of time spent in physical activity programs, taking time away from other extracurricular activities that may enhance academic performance, which is not the case we are looking to present here. In fact, supplemental programs to improve academic performance can be very beneficial for students. However, if these supplemental programs are used in place of physical activity programs, there can be a detriment to cognitive function as well as overall health and well-being. Physical activity for school-aged children can also act as a platform to learn and develop proper social responsibility. Without physical activity programs in schools, children lack the platform to experiment and learn appropriate ways to interact in different situations.
What Can You Do?
We are responsible for the future of our youth, and with the decrease in school-based physical activity programs, it is our responsibility to create an alternative for school-age children. Enroll your child in extracurricular activities that focus on developing healthy habits, as well as important life skills. By doing so, you can ensure that your children are gaining the benefits of regular exercise as well as developing the tools to maintain healthy lifestyles throughout their lives. With the improved brain function and increase knowledge of health and wellbeing, your children are set up for success in their futures.
Resources:
Colman, Carl W., and Nicole C. Berchtold. “Exercise: A Behavioral Intervention to Enhance Brain Health and Plasticity.” Www.cell.com. Elsevier Inc, June 2002. Web. 15 Dec. 2016.
Godman, Heidi. “Regular Exercise Changes the Brain to Improve Memory, Thinking Skills – Harvard Health Blog.” Harvard Health Blog. Harvard University, 29 Nov. 2016. Web. 15 Dec. 2016.
Also Check Out…
Youth Fitness – Exploring The Need
View Comments
Yes, I agree with this article because I am a fitness athlete and an expert gym trainer. Exercise can make you look smart, fit and healthy. People get more and more Smarter when they got stronger. Everyone should exercise to stay fit and healthy and see this website to learn more about it. I like this article because it describes the importance of health.