Evening exercise can boost students’ learning, neuroscientist says

Evening workouts do not take valuable time away from schoolwork, but can support learning, brain researcher Cristina Kroon said on ERR’s programme “Attention! This is science.” Research suggests that physical activity can improve students’ academic results, particularly in mathematics.

The World Health Organization recommends that children and young people aged 5 to 17 get at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. But only about one in six Estonian basic-school pupils meets that target, Kroon said.

During physical exertion, the body releases a growth factor that makes brain cells more complex and supports the development of new cells in the hippocampus. Studies show that regular exercise increases the volume of both the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex, areas involved in memory, attention, planning and complex thinking.

Exercise can also improve mood and sleep, supporting mental performance. Kroon said physical activity has a small to moderate positive effect on academic results, with the strongest apparent benefit in mathematics. Regular exercise also lowers the risk of mood and anxiety disorders, as well as dementia later in life.

Aerobic exercise appears to have the strongest effect on brain function. Suitable activities include cycling, roller skating, brisk walking and running. Walking or cycling to school, training or work can also contribute to daily activity levels.