As a physiotherapist with a background in neuroscience I am particularly interested in the effects of the exercises I prescribe upon the brain. Fortunately there is some excellent research that tells us about some of the responses and changes that occur in this wonderful organ when we engage in exercise. Understanding this can help us to make better decisions about being or becoming active and also to explain why we can feel different when we cannot exercise due to injury or another reason.
We know that exercise is important for cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of diseases such as diabetes, but less is commonly known about the beneficial effects upon the brain. In fact, knowing more about these responses could spur some individuals to taking on exercise or increasing activity levels.
Due to the release of certain neurotransmitters, neurotrophins and other factors in response to exercise, we see growth and repair of new brain cells (neurons), changes in neuron efficiency and the development of new blood vessels in the brain. What does this mean? It means that our mood is better, we can learn more effectively, reduce the effects of ageing, sharpen up our concentration levels, remember more and have an overall better experience of living. It’s a no brainer.
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