Related Concept Videos
Exercise and Cardiac Output
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
Brain Imaging
These technologies include computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT scans), positron-emission tomography (PET scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Higher Mental Functions of Brain: Learning and Memory
Functional Brain Systems: Reticular Formation
Within the reticular formation, there are several distinct nuclei that can be classified into three broad categories. The Raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brainstem. They are primarily known for their role in synthesizing and releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythms. The...
The Blood-brain Barrier
You might also read
Related Articles
Articles linked to this work by shared authors, journal, and citation graph.
The <i>Pgb1</i> locus controls glycogen aggregation in astrocytes of the aged hippocampus without impacting cognitive function.
Disruption of NREM sleep and sleep-related spatial memory consolidation in mice lacking adult hippocampal neurogenesis.
Green tea compound epigallo-catechin-3-gallate (EGCG) increases neuronal survival in adult hippocampal neurogenesis in vivo and in vitro.
Association between exploratory activity and social individuality in genetically identical mice living in the same enriched environment.
Not all water mazes are created equal: cyclin D2 knockout mice with constitutively suppressed adult hippocampal neurogenesis do show specific spatial learning deficits.
Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026

Orienteering as a Tool for Cognitive Research: An Implementation Guide
Published on: November 29, 2024
[Physical activity and brain function].
1CRTD-DFG-Forschungszentrum für Regenerative Therapien Dresden, und Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Fetscherstrasse 105, Dresden,Germany. gerd.kempermann@crt-dresden.de
Physical activity benefits brain function, improving cognitive and non-cognitive skills. This review explores exercise mechanisms, plasticity links, and evolutionary relevance for brain health.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Exercise Physiology
- Cognitive Science
Context:
- Growing evidence links physical activity to improved brain health.
- Neuropsychiatric disorders are a significant public health concern.
- Understanding exercise's impact on the brain is crucial for preventative strategies.
Purpose:
- To review the effects of sports and physical exercise on normal brain function.
- To summarize underlying mechanisms and methodological challenges.
- To explore the relationship between exercise, plasticity, neural reserves, and evolutionary relevance.
Summary:
- Physical activity positively influences cognitive and non-cognitive functions.
- Exercise demonstrates preventive effects against several neuropsychiatric disorders.
- Mechanisms, plasticity, neural reserves, and evolutionary aspects are discussed.
Impact:
- Provides insights into the neurobiological benefits of physical activity.
- Highlights the role of exercise in maintaining brain health and preventing disease.
- Informs future research on exercise interventions for neurological and psychiatric conditions.
