Turns Out, Exercise Makes Your Brain Work Better for 24 Hours, New Study Reveals

A recent study reveals that exercise’s cognitive performance-enhancing effects can last up to 24 hours.

The findings were published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity.

Previous studies have shown that improvements in brain function from exercise typically peak within the first 10 to 20 minutes of physical activity.

However, a research team from University College London (UCL) recently found that the cognitive benefits of exercise can extend up to 24 hours. They also observed that participants who spent less time sitting and slept more than six hours per day demonstrated better memory performance the following day.

The study involved 76 adults aged 50 to 83 with no history of dementia or cognitive impairment. Over eight days, participants wore wrist accelerometers to record their physical activity and sleep patterns.

Building on earlier studies documenting cognitive improvements lasting minutes to hours after exercise in laboratory settings, the researchers explored whether these benefits could persist longer, especially in older adults for whom cognitive function is crucial.

Results showed that participants engaging in moderate to vigorous exercise experienced improved working memory (the ability to retain and manipulate information during tasks) and episodic memory (the recall of everyday events). In contrast, those who spent more time sitting had reduced working memory the following day.

The researchers suggested that exercise enhances cognitive function by promoting blood flow and neurotransmitter activity. They expect the benefits of physical activity on memory to last longer than previously established.

They also noted that participants who slept more than six hours exhibited better episodic memory and psychomotor speed than those who slept less.

The study also highlighted that participants’ concentration scores improved for every additional 30 minutes of REM sleep, while 30 minutes of added slow-wave (deep) sleep enhanced episodic memory.

However, the research team cautioned that it remains unclear whether these short-term cognitive benefits translate into long-term improvements in brain health.

They expressed interest in extending this research to less cognitively healthy adults to determine whether similar findings would emerge.