That almost sounds like hearsay since the positive
benefits of regular exercise on health parameters are well documented. Multiple
studies have shown that regular exercise decreases the incidence of
cardiovascular disease and diabetes and can even impact the severity and onset
of Alzheimer’s. Non-controlled studies also show individuals that exercise
regularly have a more positive attitude about life and are better able to
focus.
However a key question is whether exercise improves cognitive
performance such as mental concentration and focus. That may not be the case
according to a recently published report that examined 79 peer reviewed
studies. The researchers found that exercise decreases mental
concentration and focus. The cause of the decreased cognitive function
appeared to be dehydration and the dehydration threshold appeared to
be a 2% loss in body weight. The investigators found there was a direct
correlation between dehydration and drop in cognitive performance. Most
athletes are aware of the relationship between exercise performance, fatigue
and dehydration. Based on this report they should be aware that as little as a
2% drop in body weight due to dehydration (which is not much for endurance
athletes) can cause a statistically significant impairment in cognitive
function.
The bottom line – pay particular attention to
re-hydration after exercise on the way back to your computer if you don’t
want it to affect your cognitive skills such as focus, mental
concentration and motor coordination. A simple test is to check the
color of your urine. It should be the color of pale lemonade.
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