An international team of scientists from Japan and the United States has identified the mechanism by which physical training has a beneficial effect on mental abilities. The study was published in the scientific journal broadcasting Journal of Physiology (JOP).
Previous research suggests that even a low-to-moderate intensity session can improve mental performance by reducing reaction time, especially during cognitive tasks. However, the physiological reasons underlying this relationship remained unclear.
Scientists conducted a series of experiments involving several groups of healthy men who had to do physical exercise and pass tests of mental ability and reaction.
Experiments have shown a significant decrease in reaction time during training compared to rest. Brain scans have found that intense exercise leads to an increase in the release of dopamine.
The study strengthens the understanding that dopamine is not only a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, but also plays a critical role in cognitive functions, especially improving reaction time.
Scientists noted that even a single training session provides a significant increase in cognitive abilities, so regular physical exercise may be the basis of brain health.
Previous scientists I learnedThat the power of felt happiness can be trained.