Why cardio exercises are good for the brain:
- Brain’s elasticity is enhanced: Your brain is elastic in nature, which means that neuronal connections can decrease and that new neuronal connections can be created.
- Detoxification of the brain: Cardio workouts exercise and strengthen the heart and improve the blood flow throughout the body, including to your brain, specifically its white matter.
- Better blood flow also can clear toxins from the brain, further protecting against inflammation and promoting neurogenesis — the development of new brain cells.
- Helps slow down dementia or cognitive decline: Cardio exercises have a brain-protecting benefit.
How to gain maximum brain benefits from cardio?
- Keep challenging yourself
- Your brain can get too comfortable with routine exercise
- Mix up your cardio workouts with varied intervals and try new, challenging activities whenever possible.
- If you regularly walk, try swimming. If you cycle, try hiking.
- Also, consider cardio that includes mental stimulation and challenges.
*Do read the Disclaimer