A way to improve working memory in 40 minutes has been identified

A single strength training session lasting 42 minutes improves working memory in healthy adults. This conclusion was reached by scientists from Purdue University. The research results were published in the journal Psychophysiology.

The experiment involved 121 volunteers aged 18-50 years. The researchers divided participants into two groups: the first performed strength training, and the second studied exercise techniques through video.

The training included a two-minute warm-up, bench press, pull-ups, bicep curls, leg press, cable tricep extensions, and leg extensions. After completing the session, participants gave blood samples and underwent EEG examination.

In the strength exercise group, reaction time in working memory tests was shorter than in the control group. Working memory is a cognitive system that temporarily retains a limited amount of information and directly processes it when solving various cognitive tasks. Sometimes it's called operational memory, similar to the temporary data storage system in a computer.

The authors believe that the short-term increase in lactate levels and blood pressure after training may accelerate executive functions, which improves cognitive performance. However, it is still unknown how long the effect lasts - testing was conducted immediately after exercise.