Why is Staying Active and exercising is Essential for Your Brain?

The Impact of physical Exercise on your Brain Health

More and more studies highlight the crucial role of physical activity in maintaining a good health. 

Researchers at the University of Maryland, USA, have discovered that suddenly stopping exercise can alter blood flow in the brain and reduce activity in cognitive regions.  

Why is Staying Active and exercising is Essential for Your Brain?

How Stopping Exercise Affects Brain Function?  

A study titled "Use it or Lose it," published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, examined the cerebral blood flow of healthy and physically fit adults aged 50 to 80. 

Scientists monitored these individuals before and after a 10-day period during which they completely stopped exercising.  

Increased Risk of Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease  

The study's initial findings revealed a significant decrease in blood flow to several brain regions, particularly the hippocampus, in those who abruptly stopped their physical activity. 

This decline in blood circulation increases the risk of developing dementia or even Alzheimer’s disease.  

Dr. Carson Smith, who led the study, explained:  

"We know that the hippocampus plays a crucial role in learning and memory, and it is one of the first brain regions affected in people with Alzheimer’s disease."

The Key to Brain Health is Staying Active  

To maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, it is essential to engage in regular physical activity. 

Consistency is key—whether through walking, jogging, or other forms of exercise, keeping the body moving helps keep the brain healthy.  

My personal experience with physical activity: 

"I did what any sane person would do. 

On wise advice, I joined a sports club for the first time in my life to reboot my mind and body. 

At first, I took up cycling and using the elliptical to release the stress and insomnia accumulated over the past two months.

That's when I rediscovered something I shouldn't have forgotten: 

"Exercise works wonders on the mind." 

After each workout session, I felt not only more relaxed and positive but also radiant.

Thanks to the endorphin boost, while becoming more alert and insightful. 

I could remember phone numbers and instructions effortlessly. Tedious administrative tasks became easy. 

I could breeze through a stack of newspapers in no time. My career reached new heights. 

Since then, whenever I need to work on an article, I’ve made it a habit to do half an hour of cardio. 

Away from my desk, accompanied by the beats of my heart and breath, new reporting ideas come more easily.

In fact, I should never have forgotten the magical power of movement. 

I was an athlete before I became a writer, and since that fire, I haven’t missed a gym session, even when I’m not motivated. 

Every time I’m not in the mood, I tell myself: '

It’s more for my brain than for my body.'"

Medical Sources

• Smith, C. et al. (Year). *Use it or Lose it. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience.  
• National Institute on Aging. Exercise and Brain Health. 
• Alzheimer’s Association. Physical Activity and Cognitive Decline.

Maintaining an active lifestyle is one of the best ways to support brain function and overall well-being. 

So, don’t stop moving—your brain depends on it!