Smarter through exercise

It's not just learning that makes you smarter. Reading can also increase your knowledge, and you can continuously train your brain with puzzles and memory games. But did you know that you can also become smarter by exercising? In this blog, Danny Kors, head trainer and nutrition coach at Happy Bodies, explains how that works.

Intelligence as a multifactorial concept

There are several factors that determine how smart we are. A large part is genetically determined. Scientists have discovered that there are genes that influence our cognitive functions, such as the ability to learn and remember. The environment in which we grow up also plays an important role in determining our intelligence. Think of the extent to which we are stimulated and challenged, but also the nutrition we receive. Then of course we also have education. Good education helps to increase our level of knowledge, learn new skills and increase our thinking ability. Finally, we become smarter by supplementing all of that with experience. If you have gained a lot of experience in a certain (professional) area, you can solve complex problems in that area better and faster.

Exercise for a smarter brain

What few people know is that exercise is also good for the functioning of your brain. For example, we read on the website of the Brain Foundation that exercise can contribute to improved memory, better sleep and a reduction in stress. Sufficient exercise ensures good blood circulation in the brain, which provides the brain with sufficient oxygen. This allows new brain cells to be formed and connections between nerve cells to become stronger. Communication between brain cells also improves. Exercise also reduces the risk of various brain disorders, such as dementia, depression and Parkinson's. Of course, exercise is also important for your physical condition and general health. So it's a win-win situation, really.

How much exercise?

How much exercise is good for you depends on many factors. The Health Council has drawn up exercise guidelines. As an adult, it is good to exercise moderately intensively for at least 2.5 hours per week. You can achieve this by walking for half an hour every day, which will cause you to breathe slightly more quickly. But don't forget daily activities such as climbing stairs, vacuuming and gardening. In addition, it is advisable to do muscle and bone strengthening exercises at least twice a week. Not only good for your brain, but also essential to prevent loss of muscle mass or to regain lost muscle mass and strength, as we already mentioned in our previous blog.

Do you exercise enough?

Are you keeping your brain flexible? You can check it here. Whatever the results, remember: Exercise is good, more exercise is better, and some exercise is better than no exercise!