Suffering from an afternoon slump? A few squats can help, according to a study that has recently been published in the scientific journal Journal of Applied Physiology.
A minute of squatting promotes blood flow to the brain, boosts your concentration and helps you make better decisions, according to the researchers.
The American, British and Japanese scientists studied a group of 20 young adults who had to do mental exercises. In one experiment they performed the tests after sitting still for three hours, in the other the sitting was interrupted by short workouts consisting of about fifteen squats and ‘calf raises’.
What seems? The training sessions result in better executive functions, faster reaction times, better concentration and less mental fatigue.
There is a caveat: during the study, the young adults got active every 20 minutes. That becomes difficult when you’re in a meeting.
Short workouts can help you live a healthier life for longer
Your brain is not the only one to benefit from a small dose of exercise.
Cycling, brisk walking or dancing for 11 minutes a day can reduce the risk of premature death reduce significantlyaccording to a previous study.
Lower your blood pressure? There’s a few minutes of ‘wall sit’ very suitable for. And with 500 steps a day you may be able to increase your chances of a longer life, according to a cardiologist.
Are you trying to make these types of short exercises a habit? Then use a timer, or link them to other things. For example, do a few squats every time you go to the bathroom.
READ ALSO: These are signs that you’ve had an effective workout, even if you haven’t sweated or felt sore
2023-12-03 08:56:00
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