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Research on exercise and cognitive function

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2026-09-01 01:03 UTC → 2026-09-09 18:26 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Research has increasingly identified a connection between physical activity and enhanced cognitive performance. A meta-analysis from the University of Taipei involving over 18,000 participants concluded that exercise improves attention and concentration, noting that these benefits occur immediately following activity regardless of sport type, intensity, or participant age. Complementary research from the Cleveland Clinic suggests specific training types target different functions, such as aerobic exercise for memory and strength training for global cognition. Building on these findings, a study from the University of Tsukuba published in Imaging Neuroscience indicates that ‘ultra-slow’ running—at a pace slightly faster than walking—can also provide immediate benefits to brain activity and mood. This research suggests that the specific biomechanical movements of running may produce unique neurological effects and emphasizes that high intensity is not required to trigger cognitive improvements. Further details from the University of Tsukuba study, led by Professor Hideaki Soya, specify that as little as 10 minutes of very slow running can provide immediate benefits. By monitoring 24 healthy volunteers with brain-monitoring equipment, researchers noted that the specific movement patterns of running provide advantages that other activities, such as walking, do not replicate. ~~This shifts~~ Subsequent analysis using functional near-infrared spectroscopy revealed that these 10-minute sessions can enhance executive functions, including cognitive control and processing speed, by increasing activity in the ~~focus from long-term exercise requirements to a much lower immediate threshold~~ brain’s prefrontal regions. Researchers noted that the ‘gentle vertical oscillation of the head’ during running was specifically linked to improved mood. Additionally, findings suggest that habitual movement patterns influence these outcomes; individuals with higher daily activity ~~for enhancing mental well-being.~~ levels showed greater working memory improvements after cycling, while sedentary behavior was linked to weaker prefrontal cortex connectivity following exercise.

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