Weight Training Can Improve Memory

An increasing amount of research is being released each year that shows that physical exercise is good for more than our physical health. Research shows that staying active also assists us psychologically and intellectually.

In a study printed in Acta Psychologica, experts set out to find what influence, if any, strength training exercise has on a person's short term memory. So, they asked a group of people to look at photos (some positive, some neutral, and some negative) before doing just one particular exercise—a one-leg knee extension/flexion resistance training movement.

Two days after that, they instructed each person to have a look at a second group of images to see which ones they could recall viewing previously. They also analyzed the individual's physiological response to the activity by taking a look at at some specific hormones, their heart rate, and blood pressure.

Researchers discovered that the participants that did the knee extension/flexion routine "had higher overall recognition accuracy than the group that did not exercise," and that was after only one session. Picture how fantastic your memory could be if you engaged in resistance or strength training on a regular basis!

If you're new to resistance training, then you may benefit from hiring a personal trainer to design a workout for your specific fitness level and goals. Keeping proper form and performing the exercises correctly is key to getting in shape without hurting yourself, and a trainer can teach you what you need to know to make that happen.

Essentially, you want to make sure you do the exercises in a slow and regulated way. In addition, don't work the same muscle group 2 days in a row as it needs a day or two to heal after a good workout.

Aerobic exercise has also been related to improved memory recall, so making a well-rounded workout plan is as significant to your mental health as it is to your physical conditioning. Incorporate both and regular chiropractic visits, in your life and you'll be in good shape inside and out.

If you are ready to optimize your health, come to our Midtown East, NY office or contact us at (917) 338-7917.

Weinberg L, Hasni A, Shinohara M, Duarte A. A single bout of resistance exercise can enhance episodic memory performance. Acta Psychologica 2014;153:13-9.