How exercise makes you smarter and improves your work performance

Understanding all the benefits of exercise is key to sustaining a healthy lifestyle. We should not dwell on only the health and fitness benefits, but also recognise the benefits in the way it effects our work performance.

Scientists and studies continue to prove exercise is valuable for our memory, energy levels, mood, alertness, and the way we think – indicating that our mental firepower is directly linked to our physical regimen.

Harvard Business Review suggests the following cognitive benefits as a result of incorporating regular exercise into your routine:

• Improved concentration
• Sharper memory
• Faster learning
• Prolonged mental stamina
• Enhanced creativity
• Lower stress

A Leeds Metropolitan University study examined the influence of daytime exercise among office workers with access to a company gym.

“Here’s what they found: On days when employees visited the gym, their experience at work changed. They reported managing their time more effectively, being more productive, and having smoother interactions with their colleagues. Just as important:

They went home feeling more satisfied at the end of the day.”

Another article from Forbes states 6 ways exercise makes you smarter:

• Increases energy
• Sharpens focus
• Enhances mood
• Helps impulse control
• Improves memory
• Increases productivity

Why wouldn’t you want to improve these?

All it takes is a short 30 minutes of exercise up to five times a week – sounds like a lot? Try and find your niche activity which you enjoy. Get together a few colleagues to take a brisk walk during lunch, find a fun club or sport, or sign up for a race or competition.

Find an exercise that you can enjoy and stick to it!

After finishing University with a degree in Business Marketing, I decided to make a big jump across seas for the first time and move from the east coast of America to Sydney, Australia. I landed my first job in a sales position in the event industry and soon thereafter moved into a marketing assistant role – following I had the pleasure of interviewing with Akolade which got me to where I am today.

Akolade is a fun, innovative company that brings together people from different walks of life to implement change. As the Marketing Manager, I have the pleasure of wearing many hats which motivates me to succeed, reach people in an array of avenues, grow our events to their full potential, and raise our story. As for me, I am a kind dedicated woman who loves to work hard, exercise, cook, be social and have some fun.