

Norepinephrine is particularly interesting to researchers because 50% of the brain's supply is produced in the locus coeruleus, a brain area that connects most of the brain regions involved in emotional and stress responses. Research in animals since the late 1980s has found that exercise increases brain concentrations of norepinephrine in brain regions involved in the body's stress response. Rather, one line of research points to the less familiar neuromodulator norepinephrine, which may help the brain deal with stress more efficiently. So far, there's little evidence for the popular theory that exercise causes a rush of endorphins. Research shows that while exercise initially spikes the stress response in the body, people experience lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol and epinephrine after bouts of physical activity. But the right kind of stress can actually make the body more resilient. It may seem counterintuitive that exercise, a form of physical stress, can help the body manage general stress levels.

Exercise fuels the brain's stress buffersĮxposure to long-term stress can be toxic to multiple systems in the body, even leading to medical concerns like high blood pressure and a weakened immune system, along with mental illnesses like anxiety and depression. But did you know breaking a sweat can also strengthen the brain?Ī growing body of research suggests physical fitness is one way to boost brain health - and that a regular exercise routine can decrease the effects of stress on the body, improve mental health and mood, and even enhance memory and cognition. Research shows routine physical activity can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen bones and muscles, and even reduce the risk of certain cancers. It’s no secret that regular exercise promotes health throughout the body.
