Staying active and enjoying a regular fitness regime can help to grow brain cells, according to new research.

Scientists from Cambridge University and the US National Institute on Ageing in Maryland found that mice which had unlimited access to a running wheel scored twice as highly in memory tests as sedentary mice.

The active rodents were also good at separating two very similar memories.

A few days of running led to the growth of hundreds of thousands of new brain cells, which improved the ability to recall memories without confusing them.

This suggests that aerobic exercise is important for critical learning and cognitive function and may slow down mental deterioration associated with ageing.

Such positive outcomes could also apply to other forms of exercise such as indoor rowing, explained Dr John Buckley, a British Association of Sport and Exercise
Science accredited exercise physiologist, lecturer and author.

"These benefits will also apply to any physical activity that is performed at similar weekly frequencies, durations and intensities that engage large muscle groups in rhythmical fashion," he added.

Posted by Linda Jacobs