Regular exercise has a significant impact on cognitive performance that lasts well beyond the day of physical activity. A new study by researchers at University College London found that adults who engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity, got enough sleep, and spent less time sitting experienced improved memory and cognitive function the next day.
The study, published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, involved 76 men and women aged 50-83 who wore activity trackers for eight days. The researchers found that participants who performed more moderate or vigorous physical activity compared to their usual level had better working memory and episodic memory the following day.
Furthermore, the study discovered that getting six hours or more of sleep, particularly deep (slow-wave) sleep, contributed to improved cognitive performance. The researchers also found that spending less time being sedentary was linked to better working memory.
The study’s findings suggest that exercise can have a lasting impact on brain function, with benefits potentially lasting up to 24 hours. However, the authors note that more research is needed to confirm these results and establish the long-term effects of exercise on cognitive health.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/new-research-reveals-that-a-single-session-of-exercise-can-supercharge-your-brain-for-the-next-24-hours