The gradual fading of mental sharpness is a natural part of the ageing process. It’s something we all, to varying degrees, will inevitably experience during our twilight years. Yet, despite the gloomy outlook, it’s becoming increasingly clear that cognitive decline is something we can battle against. Various studies have concluded that we have a certain degree of power when it comes to halting, or even minimising the effects of the deterioration of a brain that’s long in the tooth. Researchers from around the globe have found that committing to regular bouts of exercise can play a significant role in keeping our minds sharp. In fact, it turns out that working out could well be the ultimate weapon.
Change your mind
For many people, exercise is not just about physical fitness; it’s also a path to maintaining and improving mental health. The brain benefits of working out have long been understood, and these positive impacts are becoming clearer as scientific knowledge grows. Exercise is, for example, a simple yet highly effective means of boosting dopamine and serotonin, key chemicals for happiness and motivation. These chemicals can endure long after a workout has ended. What is perhaps less well known is the fact that exercise can also keep our brains operating healthily as we age.
“There are many aspects in which exercise can directly influence cognitive function by positively impacting brain activity,” says Antonina Pereira, professor of neuropsychology and neuroscience at the University of Chichester. “Exercise bolsters cardiovascular health, which increases blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain. This fosters new blood vessels and invigorates brain cells, enhancing cerebral function.
This story is from the December 2023 edition of Men's Fitness UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 2023 edition of Men's Fitness UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
FULL STRETCH
Limber up for improved lifting performance with these targeted stretches
FIGHT FAT WITH CLEVER CARDIO
Cardiovascular exercise is in some ways the simplest form of fitness there is just jump ona bike, lace up your shoes or dive in and away you go. But if you want to use cardio as an effective fat loss tool, there’s a little more you need to know. Let us show you how to make the most of your sessions to maximise the burn
COOK UP A STORM
Unlock your inner chef with advice from some of the world's foremost food experts
Under the INFLUENCE
New research suggests social media has a negative impact on body image. So how can you navigate your feeds without comparing yourself to an unrealistic ideal?
SEE THE LIGHT
Red light therapy promises accelerated recovery and has become a key tool for | professional athletes looking to get back into action as soon as possible. But is it too good to be true?
TOP DRAWER
Whether you’re looking for long-sleeve warmth for colder winter runs or a lightweight tee that keeps you cool and dry during hot summer sessions, a few high-quality running tops are essential items in your kit bag
OFF-ROAD Runners
If you’re tackling a lot of off-road running, your regular roadies aren’t going to cut it. We recruited pro run-tester Kieran Alger to put the latest selection of trail shoes through their paces here are his favourites
ON CHARGE
The Fitbit Charge 6 steps into the fitness arena with new features and a sleek design, but does it meet the high expectations set by its predecessors?
FEET FIRST
Build an injury-proof body with advice from biomechanics consultant Travis Allan, who’s yorked with Olympians and elite sportsmen
"Don't be ashamed of your emotions.They are all part of being human"
Special Forces operative turned SAS: Who Dares Wins mainstay Jason Fox's guide to building mental and physical resilience