Hey there, sports enthusiasts! We all know exercise is great for our health, but did you know it can also boost your skills on the court and course? Recent research from the University of Copenhagen, published in the journal Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, reveals how a bit of physical activity can supercharge your motor learning and memory.
Dr. Lasse Jespersen and his team discovered that incorporating exercise both before and after practicing a new motor skill can significantly improve your ability to remember and perform that skill. “Our results demonstrate that there is a clear effect across the board. If you exercise before learning a skill, you will improve and remember what you have learned better. The same applies if you exercise after learning. But our research shows that the greatest effect is achieved if you exercise both before and after,” says Dr. Jespersen.
So, how does this translate to your favorite sports like tennis, pickleball, and golf? Well, a quick 10-minute brisk walk, jog, or bike ride before and after your lesson can make a world of difference. This routine not only primes your brain to learn new skills but also helps lock in those skills more effectively.
No matter your age, we can all benefit from this approach. Think of it as a simple yet powerful addition to your practice routine. It’s like giving your brain and body a double shot of readiness and retention. Whether you're perfecting your serve, refining your swing, or just trying to keep up with the pace of the game, a little exercise can go a long way.
So, next time you head out to Find Your Detox at a tennis match, a round of pickleball, or a day on the golf course, remember to squeeze in that short burst of exercise, before and after. Your brain—and your game—will thank you!
Lasse Jespersen, et al, Acute exercise performed before and after motor practice enhances the positive effects on motor memory consolidation, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nlm.2023.107830