Exercise Makes You Smarter:5 Moves to a Brighter You

We all know, or have at least heard, that exercise is good for you. It reduces cholesterol, improves cardiovascular health, promotes weight loss, strengthens muscles and improves one's overall sense of well-being. But did you know it also makes you smarter?

John Ratey, associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and author of "Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain", says that exercise stimulates our grey matter to produce what he calls "Miracle-Grow" for the brain. His research shows how even regular brisk walks can boost memory, alleviate stress, enhance intelligence and calm aggression. Physical activity boosts blood flow to the part of the brain that is responsible for memory and learning, promoting the production of new brain cells.

You don't have to become a marathon runner to benefit your brain. The mainstay of exercise is simple - try any of these moves to smarten up.

1. Take a brisk walk to increase your heart rate, boost oxygen intake and strengthen your core muscles.

2. Take the stairs. If you have stairs in your work environment, take advantage of them. Put on your walking shoes and make your way to the top floor to boost your heart rate and strengthen your legs and back and improve balance.

3.Many communities have walking, jogging, biking or hiking groups at varied levels. Exercising with a group promotes accountability and provides valuable social connections.

4. Hit the gym! Classes like spin, step and other cardio focused exercises are ideal for those who are motivated by a structured exercise environment.

5. Learn a new hobby. Pick up tennis, racquetball or embark on a race training program to meet new people and discover what your capable of. You can do more than you think and boost your brain power in the process. For a free, and specific workout plan