Running Makes You Smarter
It seems like scientists figure out another reason why running is good for us every week. Spark, a new book by John J. Ratey sets out to prove that exercise makes us smarter. He explains how muscle activity produces proteins that play a role in our brain development and daily thought processes. Case studies prove that exercise can change our mental state and boost our creative capacity. As a runner, I already realize this. After a run, I rarely feel tired; only invigorated and refreshed.
Spark demonstrates that exercise is a key combatant against a variety of ailments such as ADD, aggression, menopause, Alzheimer's, and depression, the leading cause of disability of the U.S. With the ever-growing list of bonuses, I don't know why anyone wouldn't want to run. Spark
February 2, 2008
9:21 PM
I find running and academics very highly related, especially in my high school. For at least the past 10 years, either the valedictorian or saluditorian were on the cross country team. Now this may be conceivable in a smaller school, but our class of 2008 is over 500 kids. This year, our team captain has just been named the saluditorian.
Is this because of the proteins produced during exercise? Or perhaps because running builds the discipline needed to study and work hard. It is also a great stress reliever, which is necessary in a working environment.