Fitness and Focus
Today we’re going to dive into how physical exercise and fitness can help you while in the classroom. Not only can hitting the gym help you feel healthier and more in shape but it can have significant impacts on your mental health and your learning in the classroom. According to various studies from Harvard scientist Dr. Ratey, exercise improves learning on three levels: 1. The mindset to improve alertness, attention, and motivation; 2. Prepares and encourages nerve cells to bind to one another; and 3. Spurs development of new nerve cells. All together, exercise helps to improve performance in the classroom by having your brain prepared for the heavy lifting of academia.
Further studies have shown that students in k-12 that have early morning exercise programs get a boost in their reading ability among other subjects helping academic performance. Exercise has also been shown to have a large positive effect on concentration, helping students to better focus on exams and long study hours. The effects of exercise go past the classroom however, they also help students improve their mental health. With studies showing positive effects on stress management, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I highly encourage you all to check out the linked studies to learn more about the science of how exercise can help you from a science perspective!
What I can also tell you is that many people, including myself, who work out regularly will testify that exercise has the ability to relieve stress from school. Exercise also has the ability to help clear your mind and make you more focused for the rest of the day. This is why I would recommend that all willing and able students try and work out 3-5 days a week as a part of their normal routine. Not only have we proved with science that it will improve your mental health and performance in school, but it will help you to embrace the one thing many of you are here for: Health. Exercise as we all know is an excellent way to improve physical and cardiovascular health, as well as boosting self-confidence. I highly recommend if you don’t already, give it a try for a couple of weeks and see how you feel, and I am almost sure you won’t look back.
Sources:
Regular Exercise Improves Memory and Thinking Skills- Harvard
Regular Exercise Releases Brain Chemicals Key for Memory and Mental Sharpness- Harvard
Exercise and The Brain, How Fitness Impacts Learning