Brain Fitness Just As Important As Physical Fitness

by Abdullah Salim

As individuals age, there is increased concern over cognitive decline. Research has long proven that mental capacity and processing does decelerate with age, and according to some studies the human brain actually stops growing during an individual's early twenties, after which it gradually contracts. However, scientists agree that it is never too late to begin exercising the brain and that these workouts can make a significant difference.

Brain plasticity, also called neuroplasticity, is a term that implies that a healthy brain is never inert and will likely respond to stimulus. A study conducted by researchers at the Mayo Clinic examined more than 480 healthy adults aged 65 and over, and concluded that with regular cognitive training the subjects improved their auditory processing speed by more than 130 percent. Auditory processing speed is directly related to memory function and attention span. Several entertainment and educational companies now offer brain workout programs aimed to improve neuroplasticity, strengthen neural pathways, and stimulate the generation of new brain cells.

The battle between brains and brawn is nearly as old as time itself. Conventional thought has had it that individuals must choose one over the other. However, compelling research published by Dr. Patricia Boyle in the November 2009 issue of Archives of Neurology suggests that the two may be linked. Boyle and her colleagues tested the strength of nearly 1000 adults with an average age of 80. Over four years the team found that subjects who ranked within the top 10 percent of muscular strength were less likely to suffer from cognitive decline. Furthermore, the study found that the subjects who were stronger experienced fewer instances of mental deterioration overall.

Another group of researchers, led by Richard Davidson at the University of Wisconsin, examined brain scans of Tibetan monks to determine the impact of regular meditation on neurological fitness. Davidson and his team found that these experts in meditation demonstrated increased activity in the areas of the brain that control emotion and attention span. The monks were able to maintain a constant level of mental control and refrain from reacting to disrupting external stimuli. Moreover, when the monks approached meditation with a specific goal in mind, such as compassion or empathy, that emotion would permeate the entire mind and thereby increase the instance of random acts of kindness toward others.

Overall, the consensus among experts is that brain fitness is the same as physical fitness. A little is better than none. According to Dr. Henry Mahncke, a leading researcher in the field, "Sustaining physical fitness, good nutrition, a vibrant social life, plus brain fitness will enable successful aging."
There is certainly sufficient evidence to suggest that brain function is closely related to physical fitness, especially as the brain ages. In order to maintain healthy cognition into middle age and beyond it is important to balance physical wellness - including regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and sufficient rest - with a regimen of mental exercise.

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