Brain Gains over Brain Drains: The Power of Exercise Breaks in Children's Routine

Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness

A new study from UBC Okanagan reveals that taking short exercise breaks during long periods of sitting can help maintain healthy blood flow to the brain in children. The study published in Experimental Physiology found that uninterrupted sitting for three hours reduced the brain's blood flow response to carbon dioxide, a key measure of brain health. However, when sitting was interrupted by ten-minute exercise breaks each hour, these negative effects were avoided.

The study involved 42 children aged 7 to 13, who participated in two trial conditions: one with continuous sitting and another with hourly exercise breaks. Results showed that the exercise breaks prevented a decrease in the brain's responsiveness to carbon dioxide and improved blood velocity in the brain, which uninterrupted sitting did not.

This research is significant because it suggests that the common practice of sitting for long periods, which has increased among children during the COVID-19 pandemic, can have adverse effects on brain health. However, incorporating short bouts of exercise can mitigate these effects. This is particularly important as excessive sitting is considered an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, highlighting the need for regular movement even in young children.

In light of these findings, the study emphasizes the importance of breaking up sedentary time with physical activity to support cerebrovascular health in children. This approach not only combats the negative impacts of prolonged sitting but also aligns with recommendations for enhancing overall physical and cognitive health through increased activity.

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