How Exercise Revs Up Your Brain

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I've just read the testimony of a senior lady who says that exercise has changed her life. Not only has her physical condition improved a lot, but she says she also feels much better and has more energy. So, it looks like exercise does help with mood and cognition. Here's where I read the testimony: http://www.mobilityscooterwarning.com/video.html

Ruth of CA 2:07PM March 03, 2010

From what it sounds like you have been doing the 'Week-end Warrior' thing. Even if you were a mid-distance runner in high school your body has changed a lot. You have lost muscle mass (how much depends on how old you are).
Bottom Line: you are not the same person! (you may have started smoking or the unhealthy habit has caught up to you. Maybe you have gained weight. Maybe your not stretching enough.) Whatever it may be, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Kyle of MD 7:08PM January 07, 2010

The studies I've found on PubMed (NIH) consistently suggest that long-term moderate exercise results in the best cognitive function, and is more effective that either strenuous exercise or no exercise (being sedentary); however, strenuous exercisers perform better than those non-exercisers in tests of cognitive function (although moderate exercisers perform the best). My impression is that most of the studies define "moderate exercise" as a brisk walk, etc.

James of FL 11:35PM January 02, 2010

Used to be a mid-distancerunner district champion when I was in highschool. I used to think this is true, and maybe I'm different from everyone else but to be honest exercise makes me grumpy, mentally dull up to a day after (or until my muscles recover).
Now that I'm older I consciously try not to over do it for this reason. My day is usually over mentally after I run. I still have this problem even that I do not really push as hard before.

EL of CA 4:24AM January 01, 2010

I absolutely agree that a 3 or 4 mile run is exhilirating. My appetite for food is less and I always go home and do all the things I have been putting of because they were too boring. After a good run even every day tasks seem exciting!!

frannie of VA 12:57PM February 10, 2009

At an anedotal level this makes perfect sense. After a long hard run or Thaiboxing session I generally gain an almost zen like feeling of peace, pleasure and accomplishment. My partner even tells me I'm too grumpy if I take time of from the gym!

Richie 7:41PM May 19, 2008