The Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Neural Networks of Attention and Working Memory
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Mahta Eskandarnejad , Fahimeh Rezaei * |
Department of Motor Behavior, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran , f.rezaei.tu@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (7078 Views) |
Introduction: Exercise and physical activity have positive impacts on the physical and mental functions. However, their impact on cognitive functions needs to be elucidated in further details. Therefore, the present study was performed to determine the effect of aerobic exercise on neural network of attention and working memory. Materials and Methods: In this semi- experimental study, 20 inactive women with mean age of 22.65±2.03 years were selected by available sampling and equally divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group participated in 16 sessions of aerobic exercise. Before and after the completion of training intervention, participant’s performance was assessed using attention network test and N-back task test. Data were analyzed by the multivariable analysis of covariance method. Results: Our results showed that working memory in the experimental group was significantly increased compared to the control group. However, there were no significant differences in orienting network of attention. Conclusion: Our data are in line with the use of aerobic exercise to reinforce working memory. In addition, it seems that the impact of aerobic exercise on cognition is selective and depends on the nature of the targeted cognitive function as well as their brain substrates. |
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Keywords: Consciousness, Psychological Phenomena, Music, Cognition, Brain |
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Full-Text [PDF 623 kb]
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Type of Study: Research --- Open Access, CC-BY-NC |
Subject:
Cognitive Neuroscience
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