Physical Exercise Toughens

Abstract

Although there are ancient roots for the idea that a sound mind should reside in a sound body, in today’s world that relationship is often transformed to link exercise—especially aerobic exercise—with mental benefits. The science has been booming, and the popular media are trying to keep up. Even back in March 2007 a Newsweek cover story announced: “Exercise and the brain: We know that working out is good for the body; but now research says it also makes us smarter—and may help fight breast cancer and Alzheimer’s.” Within the extensive coverage were discussions of exercise stimulation of the blessed neurotropins (they left off the adjective), exercise regulation of some valued neurotransmitters, and exercise impacts on executive functioning and on various brain structures, including especially the hippocampi. Indeed, it was sophisticated stuff for science coverage in Newsweek, and, to my eye, flawless.