There have been many studies that show the efficacy of exercise. Besides being able to maintain overall health by boosting the immune system, the results of the study also found that exercise can extend the life span of a person. Not only that, it turns out physical activity can also improve your memory.

In the results of a recent study conducted by McMaster University, researchers found that exercise can improve memory, particularly for the elderly. The exercises referred in this study are the ones with high intensity, such as running, climbing stairs, or climbing hills. According to the researchers, the results of the study have broad implications to help treat dementia that often occurs in the elderly.

In their study, the researchers conducted an analysis of 64 adult participants with an age range of 60-80 years old. Participants were divided into three groups; the high-intensity interval training (HIIT) group, the moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) group, and the control group. The HITT group ran four sets of treadmill exercises, the MICT group ran one set of aerobic exercise for almost 50 minutes, while the control group only stretched. They exercised three times a week for 12 weeks. To see their connection with memory improvement, the researchers used a special test that tested the function of new neurons generated from exercise.

As a result, those in the HIIT group had a substantial increase in high interference memory compared to those in the MICT or control group. The study results also found that an increase in fitness level was directly related to an increase in memory performance. With this result, the researchers suggest increasing high-intensity physical activity to get its benefits.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Adobe Stock Images

Source(s):

• Kovacevic, A., Fenesi, B., Paolucci, E., et al (2019). The effects of aerobic exercise intensity on memory in older adults. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, DOI: 10.1139 / apnm-2019-0495.
• Science Daily - High-intensity exercise improves memory in seniors (2019). https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/10/191031112522.htm, 5 November 2019.