TED Talk Tuesday #75: The brain-changing benefits of exercise

Watching TED Talks is a popular pastime at CN&CO. We visit TED.com regularly to clear our heads, have a laugh or get inspired. TED Talks open our minds, spark new ways of thinking and can lead to some very interesting conversations. Each week we pick a favourite and publish it on a Tuesday, because we like how “TED Talk Tuesday” sounds. This week’s talk was posted by Gianluca Tucci:
 
“Better mood, better energy, better memory, better attention…” Wendy Suzuki couldn’t have put or researched it better. Exercising is key in our lives.
 
I decided to share this TED talk because if you know me, energy is an integral part of my being. Exercise is that energy source for me. It’s the fuel to creating that momentum in perspective, freedom and thinking.
Never have I appreciated it like I do at present. Returning to exercise after a four month lay off post a foot operation, was one of the most liberating and exciting feelings I have had. And the effects after a week are immediately noticeable. My gusto is back and there is a new spring in my step (no pun intended).
As Wendy reflects in her impactful talk, exercise has a tremendous effect on the brain:
  • Improves your reaction time
  • Improves concentration and function
  • Puts you a in a good mood
  • Supercharges your hippocampus to combat the risk of you suffering from potential brain diseases later in life
Better yet, exercise and the way you go about doing it can be diverse. My favourites are in the pool on a Sunday afternoon, an evening run during the week or doing yoga overlooking the evening traffic and bustle.
 
So, listen to Wendy and protect your brain… It’s time to get your exercise ON! VAMOS!!

Gianluca brings a touch of Italian flair to everything he does. His eye for detail, superior organisational skills and rare ability to nag relentlessly (in the nicest possible way) help to keep the team on track and on target. Say good things to him about Juventus and you’ll have a friend for life.