How Does Exercise Affect the Brain?

Exercise is an important part of living a healthy lifestyle. Not only does exercise positively impact your muscles, joints, and bones, it also plays a significant role in keeping your brain healthy too. As your heart rate increases during exercise, blood flow to the brain increases. As blood flow increases, your brain is exposed to more oxygen and nutrients.

Exercise also induces the release of beneficial proteins in the brain. These nourishing proteins keep brain cells (also known as neurons) healthy, and promote the growth of new neurons. Neurons are the working building blocks of the brain. As a result, individual neuron health is important to overall brain health.

Below we have listed some of the ways exercise affects the brain:

Increases Blood Flow

Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, which in turn helps to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the brain cells. This can enhance brain function and improve cognitive performance.

Stimulates Neurogenesis

Exercise can stimulate the production of new brain cells, a process known as neurogenesis. This can help to improve memory and cognitive function.

Boosts Neurotransmitter Production

Exercise can increase the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Reduces Inflammation

Exercise can help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can be a contributing factor to the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Improves Brain Plasticity

Exercise can improve brain plasticity, which is the brain’s ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences. This can enhance learning and memory.

Increases BDNF

Exercise can increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth and survival of neurons. This can enhance brain function and improve cognitive performance.

Overall, exercise has numerous benefits for the brain, and regular physical activity is important for maintaining brain health and function. Why not visit one of our many Crunch Clubs across NSW & VIC with our FREE 3 DAY FREE PASS BELOW! Experience everything Crunch has to offer, from tons of weights, rows of cardio + much much more!

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