What's the one thing you can do to help improve your memory? Crossword puzzles are helpful. But if you really want to improve your memory, start exercising. Yes working your body will make you smarter.

Exercise can help the brain in many ways. First, just merely increasing the heart rate allows more oxygen throughout the body including the brain. Studies have shown that exercise actually can change the brain to improve memory and thinking skills. Basically, aerobic exercise is the gold standard for improving brain function. Benefits such as reduced inflammation, reduced insulin resistance as well as overall cognitive health are improved with regular aerobic exercise. Another bonus, aerobic exercise can boost your mood as well as lower stress and anxiety. For many, aerobic exercise improves sleep. Most of the studies have been based on walking exercise.

Its pretty simple to get started. Just try to walk 30 minutes at a moderate intensity most days of the week. At least 150 minutes a week to see improvements. If walking is not your exercise of choice, try swimming, biking, tennis or any other moderate-intensity aerobic exercise to reap the benefits. Commit to a program that will work for you and enjoy all the benefits to your body and brain. For more information about health and fitness, contact Kay Colgan, Middleburg Pilates, and personal training, 14 S Madison Street, Middleburg, Va or call 540-687-6995.