THE IMPORTANCE OF EXERCISING WHEN STUDYING
Regular exercise, be it short walks, resistance training, running or yoga, has been shown to increase brain function through the release of a protein called FNDC5. This protein produces a secondary protein, known as ‘brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which prompts your body to grow new nerves and helps existing brain cells to survive.
All of this to say, when you exercise, it quite literally makes your brain stronger.
Other benefits of exercise for study include:
Improved concentration
According to research, when you perform exercise in as little as 20 minutes before studying - or during your study break - it results in a boost in concentration. Activities such as running and brisk walking can promote increased blood circulation, in turn increasing blood flow to the brain, and as a result increasing focus.
Enhanced memory
The protein produced through exercise is responsible for memory retention. It’s important to note that the intensity of exercise also plays a part, with more intensive exercises leading to increased levels of epinephrine, dopamine and BDNF levels.
Increased productivity
Exercise, even when performed for short periods of time, has been found to facilitate improved productivity and motivation. A reason being that exercise increases blood flow, loosens muscles and relieves frustrations, which in turn frees up headspace for tasks to be completed.
Better quality of sleep
When exercise is neglected, it can lead to hypertension, obesity, depression and low academic performance. Integrating exercise into your daily routine has been shown to increase the discharge of melatonin, a hormone that manages sleep and alertness. It also has a positive effect on anxiety, stress, hypertension and depression - all of which can negatively impact sleep quality.
Reduced stress
Exercises such as yoga have been shown to stabilise blood pressure and regulate your heart rate, which works to reduce stress. Yoga works specifically to relax muscles which have been tightened due to stress and poor posture. Short breaks of yoga, or desk yoga, between study can help to reduce overall stress and increase academic performance.
For better academic performance, ensure you schedule regular exercise into your daily routine, and allow for short study breaks of yoga or stretching.