Why is swimming the best exercise for your brain?

Research shows that swimming for 20 minutes a day helps improve concentration, improve short- and long-term memory, and reduce the cognitive effects of aging. “Swimming prevents inflammation in the hippocampus and activates brain pathways that prevent aging-related apoptosis, or cell death,” the TED website states.

Swimming engages all major muscle groups, gets the heart pumping and increases circulation, which is good for cardiovascular health. “Increased blood circulation stimulates the formation of new blood vessels, a process called angiogenesis,” explains the neurobiologist. Increased circulation releases endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers. Simply put, swimming floods your body with hormones and makes you happy.

Exercise terminology distinguishes between “anaerobic” and “aerobic” activity. Anaerobic exercises such as weight lifting, HIIT, Tabata etc. will produce oxygen in a short period of time, resulting in shortness of breath. On the other hand, aerobic activities such as swimming, running and dancing require moderate physical activity for an extended period of time. Cardiovascular systems are great because they support the oxygen demand of your muscles.

Aerobic exercise not only improves endurance but also aids in neurogenesis and the formation of new nerve cells. These functions play an important role in helping to reverse or repair damage to neurons and their connections, said Dr Seena Mathew. This process promotes neuroplasticity and improves cognitive function, especially in memory and learning.

Additionally, exercise can significantly improve mental health. “Exercise releases chemical messages called neurotransmitters,” says Dr. Mathew.   One of these neurotransmitters is serotonin, which is known to reduce depression and anxiety and improve overall mood when taken as a supplement.       

Researchers are beginning to understand why swimming during aerobic activity is particularly beneficial for the brain. The good news is, you don’t have to swim 400 meters in record time like an Olympic athlete to enjoy these benefits. Research in young adults shows that swimming for 20 minutes with a moderate chest pulse is enough to increase awareness.

It’s a full-body workout because it works major muscle groups, gets the heart pumping and increases blood flow, which is important for cardiovascular health. “Increased blood flow stimulates the formation of new blood vessels, a process called angiogenesis,” explains the neurobiologist. Increased circulation releases the body’s natural pain-relieving endorphins, which often lead to euphoria after exercise.   Simply put, swimming gives your body feel-good hormones.

As we mentioned earlier, swimming’s effects on cell growth and neural connections increase our ability to learn and store new information, and then remember it more accurately.

Reference

Author: MedBlog18 Blog Team

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