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Slow running improves brain function and mood in short sessions
Recent research indicates that even brief, low-intensity exercise can provide significant cognitive and emotional benefits. A study published in Imaging Neuroscience found that just 10 minutes of very slow running—at a pace similar to walking—can improve mood and enhance executive functions, such as cognitive control and processing speed.
Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, researchers observed increased activity in the prefrontal regions of the brain associated with mood regulation and executive control. Notably, the gentle vertical oscillation of the head during running was linked to improved mood.
Additional findings suggest that an individual's habitual movement patterns influence how they respond to acute exercise. Participants with higher levels of daily physical activity showed greater improvements in working memory following a bout of cycling, whereas higher levels of sedentary behavior were linked to weaker connectivity in the prefrontal cortex after exercise.
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- [● 2 SOURCES] A 10-minute session of very slow running can improve mood and executive function. www.news-medical.net · nypost.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Slow running increases activity in prefrontal regions associated with mood regulation and executive function. www.news-medical.net · nypost.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The vertical oscillation of the head during running is linked to improved mood. www.news-medical.net · nypost.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Increased sedentary behavior is associated with weaker connectivity in the prefrontal cortex following exercise. acsm.org
- [● 2 SOURCES] Very slow running leads to shorter Stroop interference time, indicating better cognitive control. www.news-medical.net · nypost.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Individuals with higher daily physical activity levels experience greater working memory improvements following acute exercise. acsm.org