Physical Activity Linked to Better Memory Scores, Study Finds
Cycle-to-work commuters and morning walkers may already know the benefits of starting the day with exercise, but now scientists have found that physical activity is also associated with improved memory scores the following day. A recent study from University College London found that 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity, combined with at least six hours of sleep, can contribute to improved cognitive performance the next day.
The study, published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, followed 76 adults aged 50-83 without cognitive impairment or dementia. Participants wore accelerometers to track their physical activity and sleep patterns, and were given online cognitive tests to assess their attention, memory, and processing speed.
Researchers found that each 30-minute increase in moderate to vigorous physical activity was associated with a 2-5% increase in episodic and working memory scores the next day. However, only the latter remained significant after accounting for sleep data. The study also found that each 30-minute increase in sedentary behavior was associated with a small drop in working memory scores the next day.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Mikaela Bloomberg, noted that the benefits of physical activity may be due to an increase in blood flow to the brain and stimulation of neurotransmitters, but it is unclear what exactly drives the impact of exercise on memory the following day. She added that it is possible that different mechanisms are behind long-term benefits of exercise to the brain.
The study’s findings support the idea that small changes to daily habits, such as incorporating more physical activity, can have a significant impact on cognitive function. Dr. Bloomberg noted that even a minor boost in cognitive performance on a day-to-day basis can make a huge difference for individuals with mild cognitive impairment. As such, the team is planning to conduct similar research in people with cognitive impairments.