Research from the University of Kent in England has shown thatModerate intensity exercisesor moderate exercise such as brisk walking, water aerobics or cycling can have the greatest impact on memory performance. The scientists suggested in their study the effects of exercise on the brain through high-intensity but moderate workouts.
Moderate training as a measure against dementia
These results suggest that it is not necessary for people to perform very strenuous exercise to achieve observable improvements in long-term memory. Moderate training can also have a positive influence on this. Researchers believe that intensity is sometimes beneficial, but not crucial. People who exercised with short bursts of activity were able toImprove memory performanceby up to 30 percent.
“There is an urgent need for interventions that reduce the risk of dementia in healthy older adults. Only recently have we begun to recognize the role of lifestyle. The biggest modifying risk factor of all is physical activity.” This is what Jennifer Heisz, Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Kinesiology, says.
This study could be important in supporting new approaches to preserving memory in old age. This is especially true when treating patients with memory deficiencies. Additionally, guidelines for improving memory through exercise could give students a boost in exam environments or even help people with daily tasks like remembering the products on a shopping list.
Dr. Amir-Homayoun Javadi and his research team at the School of Psychology concluded that different intensities of exercise or different types of rest can directly influence participants' performance on a recognition memory test.
Dr. Javadi said: “Our research shows that it is not necessary to overexert yourself to achieve observable cognitive improvements. If clear guidelines were developed to improve memory through moderately intense exercise, this could not only help support patients with memory deficiencies, but also be useful for initiatives in schools, workplaces and society. “
The research paperis published in Neurobiology of Learning and Memory.
