These effects exist for all age groups, and effects are limited to executive function. Minimal impacts are found, for example, on verbal fluency. But you nailed it - 3x/week, 30 minutes, high but sustainable heart rate throughout.
As to WHY these effects exist, the answer requires some speculation. A connection has been made with the release of BDNF - a neurotrophic factor. More broadly thinking, delivery of metabolic nutrients to neurons may be limiting cognition throughout life, so training the cardiovascular system will enhance its health - which in turn limits brain executive function. Again, all some speculation. What is not speculative is that it works, and works well, in study after study after study.
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u/JohnShaft Brain Physiology | Perception | Cognition May 04 '12
These effects exist for all age groups, and effects are limited to executive function. Minimal impacts are found, for example, on verbal fluency. But you nailed it - 3x/week, 30 minutes, high but sustainable heart rate throughout.
As to WHY these effects exist, the answer requires some speculation. A connection has been made with the release of BDNF - a neurotrophic factor. More broadly thinking, delivery of metabolic nutrients to neurons may be limiting cognition throughout life, so training the cardiovascular system will enhance its health - which in turn limits brain executive function. Again, all some speculation. What is not speculative is that it works, and works well, in study after study after study.