German scientists from the University of Kassel have found a simple physical exercise that not only improves muscles but also mental abilities. The research was published in the scientific journal broadcasting Journal of Cognitive Development (JCE).
The team focused on squats performed on an unstable surface. In addition to targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings and glutes, these types of exercises require concentration.
57 elderly and 17 young people participated in the experiment. The first group was 60-70 years old, the second was around 20.
Before the tests began, the volunteers underwent several screening assessments to ensure that exercise did not pose a health risk.
In the first test, participants performed regular dumbbell squats while taking the Stroop test, a cognitive exercise in which they had to name the font color of a displayed word but ignore the word itself. This creates a perceptual conflict; for example, the word “red” might be printed in blue font.
In the second test, volunteers also performed the Stroop test by squatting on unstable surfaces.
The results showed that doing squats reduced participants’ performance on the Stroop test by 9% when exercising on a stable surface and by 14% when exercising on an unstable surface.
According to the authors of the study, squatting, with the need to maintain balance, increases concentration and therefore improves cognitive abilities.
Earlier scientists named An exercise that improves brain function within a minute after sedentary work.
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Source: Gazeta
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