8. Better Brain Health and Memory
Brain Fact
Cardio can increase the size of the hippocampus, the brain area for memory.
Exercise can improve brain function and protect memory and thinking skills. To begin with, it increases your heart rate, which promotes the flow of blood and oxygen to your brain. It can also stimulate the production of hormones that can enhance the growth of brain cells. Regular physical activity is particularly important in older adults since aging—combined with oxidative stress and inflammation—promotes changes in brain structure and function.