Chapter 1: The Brain's Response to Running

Running is not just beneficial for physical fitness; it also plays a crucial role in enhancing and maintaining brain health.

“I’ll be happy if running and I can grow old together.”

? Haruki Murakami

Since the inception of the war on drugs in the 1970s, messages concerning the detrimental effects of drugs on the body, particularly the brain, have permeated society. One memorable advertisement depicted a man in an apartment, asking, “Is there anyone out there who still isn’t clear about what doing drugs does?” He then illustrates his point by cracking an egg into a frying pan, saying, “This is your brain on drugs.” Despite the egg industry’s concerns over the association, this imagery effectively conveyed the potential harm drugs can cause.

While illicit substances can adversely affect brain function, running yields a positive impact on mental health. Engaging in running activates brain pathways that enhance mood and significantly reduces the risk of major depression with just 15 minutes of activity daily. High-intensity exercise such as running stimulates brain regions linked to emotional regulation, increases new neuron production, and enhances synaptic plasticity.

Running fosters a more positive self-image and improves social interactions, especially in the workplace, promoting resilience and tolerance among employees.

Chapter 2: The Complexity of the Brain

The human brain is an intricate organ composed of approximately 86 billion neurons, orchestrating our daily functions. As we age, cognitive decline, memory issues, and increased susceptibility to conditions like dementia become more common. Interestingly, studies indicate that the brain tends to decrease in size over time, particularly in areas such as the frontal cortex and hippocampus, which are essential for memory and learning.

“I’m often asked what I think about as I run. I don’t have a clue.”

? Haruki Murakami

While aging is inevitable and can bring about unwanted changes, there are lifestyle choices we can make to mitigate its effects. Research suggests that aerobic exercise, such as running, may help preserve hippocampal volume, thus combating age-related cognitive decline. A meta-analysis published in February 2018 found that while running does not increase the size of the hippocampus, it effectively slows its deterioration, helping maintain neuronal health.

Joseph Firth, the lead author of the study, pointed out that the primary advantage of aerobic exercise is its ability to slow brain shrinkage rather than enlarge the hippocampus. As noted by Science Daily, physical exercise is one of the few proven methods to sustain brain size and function into older age.

Running serves as a remarkable tool for mental and physical health, acting as a safeguard against the cognitive decline associated with aging. While it might not make you smarter, it can certainly help prevent cognitive decline and maintain a healthy brain.

This is your brain on running. Any questions?

The first video, "Running Changes Your Brain, let me explain," delves into the transformative effects of running on mental health and cognitive function.

The second video, "The connection between running and the brain: By Neuroscientist Ben Martynoga," explores the scientific basis of how running influences brain health.

If you enjoyed this, you might also find this interesting:

Running Is Hard

To run is to suffer — that’s why I do it

©Copyright Jeff Barton, 2021. All Rights Reserved.