In the News

Psychology In The News | Exercise and Memory

Rosey Gardiner-Earl

20th January 2025

A recently published study led by University College London (UCL) researchers suggests that the cognitive benefits of exercise may last throughout the day following physical activity. Previous research in a laboratory setting indicated short-term cognitive improvements after exercise, but this study suggests an extension of the duration of these effects.

The study examined 76 healthy adults aged 50 to 83, finding that increased moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) on a given day correlated with improved memory test performance the next day.

The study tracked participants using wrist-based activity trackers for eight days, analysing physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep patterns. Better cognitive performance was linked to higher levels of MVPA, reduced sedentary time, and improved sleep quality, particularly slow-wave sleep. This type of deep sleep, associated with memory function, partially explained the relationship between exercise and cognitive benefits.

Exercise-induced neurochemical changes, such as increased norepinephrine and dopamine, are thought to enhance cognitive functions immediately after physical activity. These effects may persist longer, supported by evidence that exercise can improve mood and hippocampal activity for up to 48 hours. The study highlights the importance of day-to-day physical activity and sleep quality in supporting cognitive health among older adults, though the researchers caution that findings are specific to healthy individuals and may not generalise to those with cognitive impairments.

The researchers emphasise the significance of simple MVPA activities like brisk walking or dancing in boosting memory. The study's ‘micro-longitudinal’ design adds a novel approach, observing participants in real-world settings. While the results align with evidence suggesting long-term cognitive benefits of exercise, further research with larger and more diverse samples is needed.

References:

UCL news Short-term cognitive boost from exercise may last for 24 hours https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/202... (accessed 30.12.24)

Bloomberg, M., Brocklebank, L., Doherty, A. et al (2024) Associations of accelerometer-measured physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep with next-day cognitive performance in older adults: a micro-longitudinal study Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 21 133 https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966... (accessed 30.12.24)

ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS!

  1. How does the use of a ‘micro-longitudinal’ design, tracking participants in their normal daily environments, enhance the ecological validity of the study compared to previous laboratory-based studies?
  2. The study focused on cognitively healthy adults aged 50 to 83. How might this affect the generalisability of the findings?
  3. What are the potential economic benefits of promoting moderate to vigorous physical activity in older adults?
  4. How does the use of wrist-worn activity trackers improve the reliability of physical activity and sleep data compared to self-reported methods, and what limitations might still exist with this approach?

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Rosey Gardiner-Earl

Rosey has 15 years of experience teaching Psychology and has worked as both a Subject and Senior Leader in school and large sixth form setting. Rosey is also an experienced A level Psychology examiner.

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