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Lift Weights, Boost Your Brain Power
27 Nov
Summary
- Weight training for 42 minutes can improve long-term memory.
- Resistance exercises enhance executive functions and processing speed.
- Muscle fatigue markers may boost cognitive performance.
US scientists have discovered that dedicating approximately 42 minutes to weight training can lead to notable improvements in long-term memory for healthy adults. This resistance exercise regimen has shown positive effects on critical executive functions, including enhanced processing speed and working memory.
The research involved tracking 121 adults and found that those who participated in moderate-difficulty weight exercises exhibited better working memory response times compared to a control group. The study's findings suggest a link between the physiological responses to exercise, such as increased blood lactate and blood pressure, and improved cognitive abilities.
While the exact duration of these cognitive benefits remains unconfirmed, the findings strongly support integrating resistance exercise into fitness programs for immediate boosts to executive functions. Previous studies have also indicated that increased physical activity later in life can help preserve cognitive function and potentially slow the onset of dementia.
