Do you think that being active makes you more intelligent?

[etalns]

Well, more intelligent isn't the right way to say it. Do you think it makes you more intelligent than you would be if you didn't exercise?

I read an observation in an LSAT prep book today about it and was just curious as to what others thought.

it seems like when I am sticking to a workout plan my life is much more "Clear". I don't get stressed out easily, I can keep my concentration etc.

 

[xSkyDrAx]

Well exercise is a proven stress reducer and probably helps to clear your mind hence the 'life is much more clear'. It's the same as me when I exercise.

 

[PhoenixOrion]

I'm not sure about the intelligent part but it is a well known fact that exercise has biological and psychological association of having "clear" or "heightened" mind.

Every time you exercise or put stress on your body, the brain reacts by producing endorphins/opiates that give you that sense of "clearness."

 

[etalns]

I think one reason why I may have a noticable difference is becauase I only workout during th esummer. During the year I am either studying and stressing out or being piss drunk.

 

[PhoenixOrion]

there's also numerous studies linking sunlight and alertness.

there's definitely a correlation how exposure to natural light has positive impact on mood/behaviour/productivity.

so its actually normal to go through seasonal physiological change because of longer days during summers.

 

[etalns]

Originally posted by: PhoenixOrion
there's also numerous studies linking sunlight and alertness.

there's definitely a correlation how exposure to natural light has positive impact on mood/behaviour/productivity.

so its actually normal to go through seasonal physiological change because of longer days during summers.

I've definitely noticed that myself.

 

[yhelothar]

Yup that's why stephen hawking is so damn smart.. he exercises so much! :roll:

 

[FoBoT]

it sure doesn't hurt

 

[Schadenfroh]

nope

 

[NuclearNed]

Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's later in life. It doesn't take much of a stretch of the imagination to think that it also must improve mental health when you are younger.

 

[PingSpike]

I think it probably has at least a small effect.

 

[skace]

I wouldn't say being active has made me more intelligent, but I would say it has made me more motivated and responsible, which I suppose in turn lets me act on the intelligence I may have ignored before.

 

[BriGy86]

not really, it seemed to me that most of the jocks in highschool were idiots, and now have unplanned kids, drug problems, no goals, or a combination of the 3

but as far as just being active in that some one attends a gym or some sort of physical activity, i suppose it can be better for you mentally

 

[iwantanewcomputer]

yes, lots of studies have shown regular high intensity cardio improves mental function in most measures.

 

[Fox5]

Being active makes you smarter, but I wouldn't necessarily say that means you have to be physically active. As long as you're active doing something and making progress (rather than vegging out), I'd say it makes you smarter. I'd also wager that being active intellectually will make you smarter than being active physically.

 

[vi edit]

It provides more oxygen to brain.

*shrugs*

 

[PingSpike]

Also, drinking booze delays the onset of dementia.

 

[tweakmm]

Intelligence is the wrong word, but yes, I believe that exercise has a positive impact on one's cognitive abilities.

 

[SWScorch]

Studies have showsn that exercise makes you more alert and able to concentrate, but if it makes you more intelligent then there must be a cut-off point because I certainly don't feel smart.

 

[tfinch2]

Originally posted by: virtualgames0
Yup that's why stephen hawking is so damn smart.. he exercises so much! :roll:

That comment is idiotic.

 

[SlitheryDee]

I'm sure it has a positive impact on energy levels and alertness. That certainly doesn't hurt, but I don't think it would actually increase your intelligence.

 

[Mani]

Originally posted by: Qosis
Well, more intelligent isn't the right way to say it. Do you think it makes you more intelligent than you would be if you didn't exercise?

I read an observation in an LSAT prep book today about it and was just curious as to what others thought.

it seems like when I am sticking to a workout plan my life is much more "Clear". I don't get stressed out easily, I can keep my concentration etc.

Increased intelligence, no. Increased clarity, focus and concentration, definitely.

 

[JulesMaximus]

Originally posted by: Qosis
Well, more intelligent isn't the right way to say it. Do you think it makes you more intelligent than you would be if you didn't exercise?

I read an observation in an LSAT prep book today about it and was just curious as to what others thought.

it seems like when I am sticking to a workout plan my life is much more "Clear". I don't get stressed out easily, I can keep my concentration etc.

I think it makes me sharper.

:thumbsup: I would definitely agree with you on the "clear" thinking.