exercise, online learning, military friendly collegeTaking online college classes at a military friendly university is a great way to earn an accredited degree while working full-time.
But juggling academic studies and a job — even with the help of a supportive family — can make it hard to find time for regular exercise.
What if I told you that there was a way to improve your mental acuity so that you could spend less time learning the same material?
Well, there is — and as luck would have it, the best way to shorten your study hours and make them more effective is through exercise itself.
Regular cardiovascular exercise not only boosts creative thought; it also has been proven to improve memory.
In fact, some studies show that exercising can decrease your chance of getting Alzheimer's, too.
The Link Between Exercise and Creativity
Several research teams have now tested a phenomenon people have been casually observing for years, that movement gives a boost of inspiration.
This paper, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, suggests that mood and creativity are both enhanced by aerobic exercise, and independently of one another.
What that means in layman's terms is that when you get stuck writing a term paper, the best thing to do is get up and take a brisk walk around the block or put on your favorite music and dance until you break a sweat.
You will be able to approach the assignment with a fresh perspective and enhanced creative skills.
The Link Between Exercise and Memory
Regular cardiovascular exercise also improves memory function. A recent study out of the University of British Columbia found that exercise actually increases the size of the brain's hippocampus, the part responsible for learning and verbal memory.
Several other reputable studies, like this one discussed in the New York Times blog, have shown the connection between memory and regular cardiovascular exercise.
The theory is that, when you exercise, you enhance circulation, increasing the amount of oxygen in the brain and releasing proteins that assist cognition.
People who exercise regularly from the time they are in their twenties achieve the best results, but improvement can be seen at any age.
How much is enough to enjoy the benefits?
The good news is you don't need to be an athlete to enjoy these benefits. Brisk walking for 30 minutes five times a week will do the job.
The most important thing to keep in mind is you need to make exercise a regular part of your life. You can't boost cognition and improve memory simply by going out for the occasional run.
Consistency in your exercise regime, like consistency in studying for your online classes, is the best way to achieve long-term success.
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