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Huberman Lab

How to Use Exercise to Improve Your Brain’s Health, Longevity & Performance

Jan 6, 2025
Discover how various forms of exercise boost brain health and cognitive performance in both the short and long term. Uncover the neurochemicals that enhance alertness and learning, and learn the best times and types of exercise to maximize brain benefits. The role of osteocalcin and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in neuroplasticity is explored, alongside the surprising advantages of jumping exercises. Additionally, find out how exercise can improve recovery after poor sleep and enhance cognitive resilience.
01:49:32

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Different forms of exercise, such as cardiovascular and resistance training, provide both immediate and long-lasting benefits for brain health.
  • Physiological arousal from exercise enhances alertness and cognitive function, facilitating better learning and memory retention.

Deep dives

Exercise Enhances Brain Health and Longevity

Exercise plays a crucial role in promoting brain health and longevity through both acute and chronic effects. Engaging in different forms of exercise—cardiovascular and resistance training—contributes not only to immediate improvements in brain function but also builds lasting benefits over time. Regular physical activity has been shown to enhance learning, retention of information, and the brain's capacity to adapt to new information as individuals age. Over time, these benefits compound, meaning that consistent exercise habits significantly improve cognitive abilities and prevent cognitive decline.

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