Recently, I read the book Brain Rules by Dr. John Medina. It is a New York Times bestseller, and there is no doubt in my mind why it is so. It is such a good read, and John is incredibly funny. A notable molecular biologist, aka hard-core scientist, he manages to break down complex theories into easily understandable concepts with vivid stories. I am amazed by all the little things we can do to improve our brain power.
Today, I would like to share with you Rule #2 – Exercise boosts brain power.
First of all, do you know that our brains were built for walking 12 miles a day? Just think about our ancestors, they were hunting in the woods for hours for food, right? That’s why.
Exercise is so important because it gets blood to your brain, bringing it glucose for energy and oxygen to soak up the toxic electrons that are left over. It also stimulates the protein that keeps neurons connected.
Here are a few little drops of his wisdom:
- If you are a couch potato, the chances are that your mind will likely be withered and battered by the ageing process. But if you keep being physically active, your mind can remain as incandescent as a light bulb even in your 80s!
- Exercisers outperform couch potatoes in tests that measure long-term memory, reasoning, attention and problem-solving skill.
- However, not all is lost. If you engage in aerobic exercise, say a minimum of 30 minutes for 2 – 3 times a week, in just a few months, the cognitive performance and executive functions will vastly improve, and memory scores will go up as well.
- If you carry out aerobic exercise just twice a week, you will also halve your risk of dementia.
So, in short, to improve your thinking skills, MOVE!
To conclude, I want to say I love his idea to put treadmills and bikes in classrooms and offices. His research suggests that the best business meeting would have everyone walking at about 1.8 miles per hour!
About treadmill desks – I found this site that demonstrates what a walking desk may look like, and they also provide advice and reviews on standing and walking desks, too[1].
There are audio and video for each brain rule, and they are fantastic resources[2]. Check them out!
1. Home. WorkWhileWalking; 2025.
2. Medina J. Brain Rules. Brainrules; [cited on 2025 Apr 7].
Sze Wing Vault is a coach, author and creative entrepreneur specialising in personal development and spirituality. She believes coaching isn’t about therapy, but clarity. As a graduate from The London School of Economics and Political Science, Sze Wing offers both a practical and holistic approach to personal and business transformation.
Sze Wing presents at events both in Australia and internationally, hosts group workshops, is an indie author and offers coaching on an individual basis. Connect via her profile, if you want to know more or book an appointment.
Disclaimer: This Content has been developed from our generous global community and is intended for informational purposes only. This Content is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon. Further, the personal views and experiences published are expressly those of the author, and do not represent the views or endorsement of SoulAdvisor through the act of publication on our site.
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