A survey of 24 studies examining the effects of physical exercise on mental functioning found that after 10- to 40-minute bouts of exercise, people show enhanced higher level cognitive processing—things like planning and self-control. The researchers speculate that exercise increases blood flow to the pre-frontal areas of the brain, which are responsible for higher functions. It’s like sharpening your mind while toning your bod. Sprints, anyone?
GALLERY: Seven High-Intensity Workouts
