A recent study published by researchers from University College London found that exercising for just half an hour can improve memory scores the next day. The study involved 76 adults aged 50-83 years old who were asked to wear an accelerometer for eight days to track their sleep and physical activity, as well as complete simple online cognitive tests each day. The findings suggest that incorporating regular physical activity into one’s daily routine could have a positive impact on cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.
Published Date: 2024/12/10
Key Findings
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Each 30-minute increase in moderate to vigorous physical activity on the previous day corresponded to a 2-5% increase in episodic and working memory scores the next day.
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The benefits of exercise on memory appear to last longer than expected, with some effects persisting even after several days.
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Sleeping for at least six hours at night was also associated with improved cognitive performance the following day.
Study Limitations
The study has limitations, including that the participants had high levels of education, excellent health, and high levels of everyday physical activity. This may limit the generalizability of the findings to other populations.
Implications for Cognitive Health
The study’s findings suggest that incorporating regular physical activity into one’s daily routine could have a positive impact on cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia. The researchers noted that physical activity can result in short-term cognitive improvements and a reduced risk of dementia, which is consistent with previous studies.
Related Topics
Background
A recent study published by researchers from University College London suggests that exercising for 30 minutes can improve memory scores the next day. The study, which was led by Dr. Mikaela Bloomberg, involved 76 adults aged 50-83 years old who did not have cognitive impairment or dementia.
Methodology
The participants were asked to wear an accelerometer for eight days to track their sleep and physical activity as they carried out their normal life. Each day, the participants were also given simple online cognitive tests to probe their attention, memory, and processing speed among other faculties.
Limitations
The study has some limitations, including that the participants had high levels of education, excellent health, and high levels of everyday physical activity. It is also not clear exactly what is driving the impact of exercise on memory the following day, with benefits from neurotransmitters only thought to last for a few hours.
Conclusion
Physical Activity and Cognitive Function
The Benefits of Exercise on Memory
Recommendations
Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that individuals engage in regular physical activity, including moderate to vigorous exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Additionally, getting sufficient sleep, with at least six hours per night, may also contribute to improved cognitive performance.
Sources
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[1] Bloomberg, M., et al. (2024). Physical Activity and Cognitive Function in Adults: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity.
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[2] Davis, N. (2024). Exercising for 30 minutes improves memory, study suggests. The Guardian.
- theguardian.com | Exercising for 30 minutes improves memory, study suggests
- reddit.com | Exercising for 30 minutes improves memory and cognitive ...
