Exercising outdoors 'improves children's memory'
17/09/2010 Children who regularly spend time exercising outdoors are likely to have a better memory, a new study suggests.
Researchers at the University of Illinois in the US studied 49 children aged nine and ten using a MRI scan, finding that exercise helps grow an important part of the brain.
The scientists found that the part of the brain responsible for memory – the hippocampus – was up to 12 per cent larger in children that were physically fit. Kids with a larger hippocampus performed better in memory tests.
Art Kramer, a professor of psychology at the University of Illinois, said: "This is the first study I know of that has used MRI measures to look at differences in brain between kids who are fit and kids who aren't fit."
A new sticker campaign was launched in the UK recently to promote the benefits of exercising outdoors and outdoor play activities.
Love Outdoor Play is being supported by Play England, as well as more than 30 authors, charities and explorers.
Researchers at the University of Illinois in the US studied 49 children aged nine and ten using a MRI scan, finding that exercise helps grow an important part of the brain.
The scientists found that the part of the brain responsible for memory – the hippocampus – was up to 12 per cent larger in children that were physically fit. Kids with a larger hippocampus performed better in memory tests.
Art Kramer, a professor of psychology at the University of Illinois, said: "This is the first study I know of that has used MRI measures to look at differences in brain between kids who are fit and kids who aren't fit."
A new sticker campaign was launched in the UK recently to promote the benefits of exercising outdoors and outdoor play activities.
Love Outdoor Play is being supported by Play England, as well as more than 30 authors, charities and explorers.
