Physical activity, from brisk walking to team sports, is increasingly recognised not just for physical fitness but also for enhancing memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function, according to experts and recent guidance.
Regular exercise can do more than strengthen the body: it can also sharpen memory, concentration and other thinking skills, according to Olga Orel, a rehabilitation specialist and sports psychologist who spoke to RT. Orel said physical activity boosts circulation, helping the brain receive more oxygen and nutrients, and is linked to higher levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF, a protein that supports nerve cells and the formation of new connections.
Her comments align with guidance from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, which says physical activity can help keep thinking, learning and judgement skills sharper with age. The CDC also says even small amounts of moderate exercise can bring benefits, while its separate brain-health guidance says movement may help memory, reasoning and lower the risk of cognitive decline.
Orel said both aerobic and strength training can help, but team sports offer an extra layer of mental work because they require rapid decisions, reading the situation and anticipating other people’s actions. Cleveland Clinic notes that exercise may support brain health by improving blood flow and triggering hormones important for nerve-cell function, while also helping with blood pressure, blood sugar and inflammation.
She also warned against overlooking brisk walking, saying it can improve brain circulation, ease tension and support cognitive health. The CDC and the National Institute on Aging both say that regular movement can improve mood and brain function, and the CDC says even a 20- to 40-minute session can aid concentration. Orel added that overtraining without proper recovery can harm sleep, mood and attention, underscoring that exercise works best as part of a balanced routine rather than a punishing one.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
