Want a High GPA in College? Join a Gym

College students who want to raise their GPA can begin by boosting their level of exercise. Researchers at Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan tracked the grades and exercise habits of 266 undergraduates. They found that students who regularly participated in vigorous physical activity had higher G.P.A.’s.  Another  study was conducted in 2015  by the American College of Sports Medicine relating to exercise and grades.  Their studies found that there were positive effects on working memory and cognition through aerobic activity.  These studies are promising, but how does it happen?

The brain spends a lot of energy controlling your body.  It burns stored carbohydrates or glycogen, which is also a complex glucose polymer.  When the brain uses glycogen not only is this sugar used to control bodily functions, but it is also used for synaptic activity and memory. Scientists have found that by exercising not only were the glycogen reserves replenished but it increased glycogen storage up to 60 percent. This allows us to think more quickly and remember clearly.  This, in turn, is essential for higher brain functioning.

Exercise basically super fuels one’s brain.  The effect of exercise lasts only 24 hours which may seem depressing but the upside is with continuous exercise energy levels in the brain remain high and this occurs especially in the areas that are crucial to learning and memory.  Exercise is especially beneficial before exams.  If done 24-48 hours before an exam is taken scores are higher than if no activity is done at all.

So what does this all mean?  We should all be exercising regularly not only for other health benefits but also to perform at optimum levels in academic settings.  Health professionals recommend at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity in order to  feel the effects of it.  That’s only 20-22 minutes a day, folks!

Exercise is not only advantageous to  college going students but students at all levels, including children and youth.  Physical activity and exercise is beneficial to brain structure , brain function and cognition in our youngsters as well;  so do yourself a favor and get a gym membership!