Want a sharper mind? Neurologist reveals the ideal amount of exercise for a healthier brain, says 'every drop of sweat counts'
Neurologist Doctor Wendy Suzuki highlights the link between exercise and brain health. Even moderate aerobic activity improves brain function. A study showed improved mood, memory, and focus in participants after regular exercise. More exercise leads to greater cognitive benefits. Doctor Suzuki emphasizes that consistent movement strengthens the brain. Physical activity sculpts a smarter and more resilient brain.
iStock Neuroscientist Dr. Wendy Suzuki emphasizes that exercise significantly boosts brain health. Research indicates that even minimal aerobic activity, like a few weekly spin classes, enhances mood, memory, and focus by improving the function of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. (Image; iStock) While many hit the gym to tone their bodies or shed calories, a growing body of science now urges us to think of exercise as brain food. In a conversation that's gained traction online, renowned neurologist Dr. Wendy Suzuki shared compelling insights on the direct impact of exercise on brain health. Her message is simple yet powerful: "Every drop of sweat counts."
Dr. Suzuki, a professor of neuroscience and psychology at New York University, recently appeared on The Diary of a CEO podcast hosted by Steven Bartlett. She later posted a clip of the discussion on Instagram, highlighting one of the most frequent questions she's asked: 'What's the ideal amount of exercise for a better brain?'
Drawing on years of research, Dr. Suzuki explained how even moderate aerobic activity can lead to measurable improvements in brain function. Her lab conducted a study involving individuals who had exercised for less than 30 minutes over the past three weeks—essentially, 'low-fit' participants. The participants were asked to engage in a 45-minute aerobic activity, like a spin class, two to three times per week. The outcome? 'Their mood got significantly better, their memory function improved, and their ability to shift and focus attention got significantly better,' Suzuki revealed. These changes are closely tied to the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex—two key brain areas involved in memory, focus, and emotional regulation.
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What about people who already exercise regularly? Dr. Suzuki didn't leave them out. In a follow-up experiment, her team collaborated with another spin studio, offering participants the freedom to work out as often as they liked, up to seven times a week. The findings were striking: 'Basically, every drop of sweat counted,' Suzuki said. Brain scans revealed enhanced function in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, along with noticeable mood improvements. Even those who were already exercising twice a week continued to see cognitive benefits as they increased their activity. While Dr. Suzuki admitted they haven't yet found the perfect 'exercise formula' for maximum brain benefit, the trend is unmistakable. The more consistent the movement, the more powerful the impact on the brain.
'I love to leave people with the idea that every drop of sweat counts for building your brain into the big, fat, fluffy brain that you really want,' she said, playfully underscoring the tangible link between physical effort and mental strength. So the next time you lace up your shoes or hop onto a treadmill, remember—you're not just working out your body. You're sculpting a smarter, sharper, and more resilient brain.
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