The Brain and Movement: How Physical Activity Affects the Brain

In recent years, many studies have demonstrated the importance of movement for the human body, from the improvement of cardiovascular effi cacy to the enhancement of muscular functions, metabolic balance, and organ systems. Th e brain is no exception and benefi ts greatly from movement, both structurally and functionally. Memory, creativity, and intelligence, are only a few of the many things that are regulated by the brain. Th e literature demonstrates the benefi ts of physical activity on numerous factors that infl uence brain functions. Th e present short review aims to clarify how physical activity aff ects the human brain. We have identifi ed the infl uence of movement on the brain, through investigation of this infl uence according to the close relation of physical activity with cognitive processes and brain development. Th ese fi ndings off er an insight into several conclusions regarding the infl uence of movement on the brain, which is soundly based on relevant literature. KEY WORDS motor activity, neurotrophic factors, language, human movement However, the increase of neurotrophins diff ers depending both on the type of exercise and gender. Huang, Larsen, Ried-Larsen, Mller & Andersen (2014) published a review in which it was highlighted that only one aerobic exercise session is needed to increase BDNF levels and that frequent aerobic exercise further increases