Preteen Brain and Exercise

The data from the Boston Children’s Hospital analysis of nearly 6,000 early adolescents was quite clear—and somewhat eye-opening. Physical activity of any kind was associated with more efficiently organized, flexible, and robust brain networks, the researchers found. The more physical activity, the more “fit” the brain. It didn’t matter what kind of physical activity the children were involved in, it only mattered that they were active. Bottom line? Regular physical activity has positive effects on a child’s developing brain circuits. If the “family” can be active together, it benefits the adult brain’s as well. Richard Restak, MD, has stated that physical exercise is the best thing you can do to help protect good brain function.