We all know exercise is great for our physical health, but the benefits don’t end there! Here’s how exercise can boost your learning.
Exercise increases energy levels.
Many people assume exercise will tire them out, but this isn’t always the case! Engaging in regular periods of low-intensity exercise has been shown to increase energy levels. In fact, one study found that students who practiced mild aerobics three days a week were able to reduce their fatigue by 65%!
Why is this the case? Research indicates that exercise affects our bodies on a cellular level, down to the mitochondria that create “fuel” from the food we eat and oxygen we breathe. Exercise stimulates these cells while also increasing oxygen circulation in the body. The end result is a feeling of revitalization and renewed energy levels!
Exercise improves focus.
The stimulating effects of regular exercise also help to improve our focus and concentration. Not surprisingly, this also affects our ability to recall indivation. After all, it’s much easier to study when you can concentrate! Research has found that students who exercised had more effective study sessions and were able to remember indivation more easily.
Scientists report that exercise directly affects our brain tissue and enhances areas involved in “control of cognition.” Combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise has even been shown to counteract neurological and cognitive disorders. So next time you’re in the middle of a big study session, make sure to take a 20-minute exercise break!
Exercise increases self-confidence.
As all parents know, self-confidence is one of the keys to success. Unfortunately, students who lack self-confidence in the classroom are likely to experience academic setbacks as a result. This can often result in a vicious cycle, further decreasing self-confidence, leading to more academic difficulties (and so on).
Not only is exercise beneficial for our mental health, but studies have actually proven regular exercise increases self-confidence. Recent findings indicate mild aerobic exercise improves self-confidence in students of all ages – even at university levels! Researchers believe that exercise improves self-esteem in all areas of our lives, including “educational, family, social, and general self-esteem.”
Exercise improves sleep.
Over the years, we’ve talked a lot about the importance of sleep on the Tutor Doctor blog. After all, one of the main concerns we hear from parents is that their child either goes to bed too late or has difficulty waking up in the morning (in many cases, both)! In almost all cases, bad sleeping habits are the culprit – and exercise is a great place to start breaking those habits!
But wait! Didn’t you say exercise increases energy levels at the beginning of this blog? You’re right! Exercising during the daytime will provide a boost in energy levels – but it will also encourage a “regular” bedtime. Research shows that exercise is directly associated with improved sleep patterns, and getting a proper night’s sleep should be a first priority for all students!
