There is a growing body of evidence showing the benefits of exercising for mental health. Recent research has found that just six minutes of intense exercise can increase concentrations of an important molecule in the brain, improving its ability to regulate emotion and stress.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder, looked at the effects of intense exercise, such as sprinting, on concentrations of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in healthy adults. BDNF is a protein found in neurons in the brain that helps regulate learning, memory and the ability to cope with stress. The research team found that after just six minutes of intense exercise, BDNF concentrations were significantly higher than before the exercise.
The findings suggest that short bursts of intense exercise can have powerful effects on our brains. Exercise is known to have beneficial effects on overall mental health, but this study shows that just a few minutes of intense exercise can have positive effects on our mood and ability to handle stress.
The research team is now looking into the effects of longer, more sustained bouts of intense exercise on BDNF levels and mental health. They are also exploring how BDNF levels and mental health can be improved with more regular intense exercise routines.
The findings of this study are promising, as they provide further evidence of the benefits of exercise for mental health. Intense exercise could play a significant role in improving our ability to cope with stress and regulate our emotions. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, why not try a quick burst of intense exercise to help clear your head?