Brain Power

You know that exercise can help you lose weight and tone your muscles. But next time you step on the treadmill, think of your brain. (Should be easy, since that’s where your thoughts come from!)

Exercise increases blood flow to the parts of the brain that are considered to be essential for memory and learning. Therefore, regular exercise could prevent you from developing dementia and age-related memory lapses. Scientists are also working on discovering if exercise could help slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s.

While exercise doesn’t directly cause improvement of cognitive performance, working out is highly associated with helping younger individuals do better on testing and with projects. And as an adult, adding some witty, intelligent thoughts into conversation can only help you.

Focusing on a fitness plan takes dedication and focus (also from your brain). So pass on that motivation to the rest of your life! With all of the benefits for a better, healthier life, how could you go wrong? [U.S. News & World Report]