9. Exercise makes you smarter
Exercise clears your mind and sharpens your focus as you send more oxygen to your brain. Exercise also promotes the growth of new brain cells in two ways. Increased blood circulation to the brain promotes neurogenesis, the production of new brain cells. Exercise also stimulates the increased production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF, a protein that “fertilizes” new brain cells.
In a nutshell: Include cardiovascular workouts in your training program to increase oxygen to the brain. Regardless of the type of training you choose, make sure you breathe deeply and stay oxygenated.