Resting after a workout allows time for our bodies to recover. There are many benefits to exercise, even those for mental health and wellness. However, recent research indicates that even taking a week off from exercise can diminish the mental benefits.
A recent study released by the University of Maryland showed that avid runners who took 10 days off from all activity had blood flow reduction in the brain. The reduction was upwards of 40% of the blood flow measure while the participants were still active. Most notable reduction took place in the hippocampus; an area of the brain responsible for memory.
However, it appeared as though brain function returned to its previous state after the subjects began working out again. Nonetheless, the break from exercise can be detrimental to more than just muscular strength or muscular endurance, so keep up with it for added brain benefits.
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