How to Exercise to Improve Concentration
These days, with distractions literally at your fingertips, it can be especially hard to concentrate while working on a task, activity, or assignment. Exercising regularly is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve concentration, motivation, memory, and mood. Physical activity has a positive effect on the brain’s levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin - which, in turn, has a positive effect on focus and attention. It’s important to make time to exercise daily to enhance your concentration, so here are a few ideas to get you started on your journey to strengthening your brain - for both children and adults!
Numerous studies indicate that regular exercise is good for attention span, information processing, and performance of cognitive tasks. It’s proven that good, fitness-based exercise makes our brains more ready to learn. Fitting physical activity into your daily routine doesn’t have to be hard; think of creative ways to integrate it into your day! Walk your kids to school, get up 15 minutes early for a jog around the neighborhood, or go on a family hike! Ideally, exercising right before you need to focus will benefit you the most, but no matter what time of the day you exercise, your brain will react positively!
Getting your heart rate up and working up a sweat improves your circulation and the surge of blood and oxygen to your brain boosts your thinking. A short aerobic workout between meetings or during a study break can be all you need to get a quick concentration pick-me-up. Use your living room as a workout studio and do aerobic-based exercises like high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or dance cardio and have fun using exercise as a brainpower recharge.
Although aerobic exercises are said to be the most effective in improving concentration and memory retention, it might not be enjoyable for everyone. Physical activities such as yoga and pilates can still significantly improve energy levels and brain function. Using these practices and meditating can boost the regions of the brain associated with goal-directed behavior and can allow for easier focus. Make time out of your day to break a sweat or take a breather and you’ll notice a remarkable difference.
The solution to improving concentration may be simpler than you think. Regular exercise helps enhance your attentiveness and is beneficial for your brain. Physical activity allows for the blood flow and the release of endorphins, making it easier to focus and retain attention. Learn what you enjoy doing the most and find a way to fit it into your daily routine, and get your children and the entire family to join you too! This simple step is rewarding in many ways, and both your body and brain will thank you!