As parents, caregivers, or doctors, we all want to provide our children with the best quality of life. We want them to be physically and mentally healthy as they grow. While regular exercise is essential to keeping our bodies healthy, it also has a considerable influence on our minds. Have you ever considered boxing as a form of exercise and the benefits it has on cognitive function? Let’s explore the neurological benefits of boxing and how it can help improve cognitive function.
Boxing stimulates the production of BDNF
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a protein that stimulates the growth of new neurons and synapses in the brain. High levels of BDNF are essential for the survival and maintenance of neurons. Research has shown that boxing stimulates the production of BDNF, which promotes neuroplasticity, enhancing memory function, and improving learning abilities.
Boxing improves focus, attention, and concentration
Boxing requires a high level of focus, attention, and coordination. Punching and dodging a bag, for instance, requires one to block out distractions, center their attention on the task at hand and coordinate their hands and feet all while maintaining a balance. This, in turn, translates to improved focus and concentration outside of the ring.
Boxing helps reduce stress and anxiety
Physical exercise, such as boxing, has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. When you engage in vigorous movement, your brain releases endorphins, a mix of chemicals that improve mood and reduce stress levels. Boxing helps release pent-up emotions, release tension, and manage stress levels, ultimately reducing anxiety.
Boxing encourages socialization
Boxing can be an individual or team sport, and as a result, it provides an avenue for socialization. Group boxing classes, for instance, bring together individuals with a shared interest. During such classes, participants are encouraged to engage in friendly competition with each other, forming a community and promoting social interaction.
Boxing improves overall physical health
Physical health and mental health are intertwined, boxing not only promotes cognitive development, but it also facilitates in overall physical health. Boxing as a form of cardio can improve cardiovascular functions. It can also work various muscle groups, improve muscle tone, and strengthen bones, joints, and tendons.
In conclusion, boxing is an excellent form of exercise that provides numerous benefits. It promotes neuroplasticity by stimulating the production of BDNF, improves cognitive function, helps reduce stress and anxiety, encourages socialization, and improves overall physical health. While boxing may not be for everyone, introducing it as a form of exercise to children with disabilities may provide them with an alternative form of therapy that not only improves their physical health but their mental well-being as well. As you seek to provide your children with the best care and quality of life, consider incorporating boxing as a way to stimulate their overall neurological and physical health.
- Sleiman SF, Henry J, Al-Haddad R, El Hayek L, Abou Haidar E, Stringer T, Ulja D, Karuppagounder SS, Holson EB, Ratan RR, Ninan I, Chao MV. Exercise promotes the expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) through the action of the ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate. Elife. 2016 Jun 2;5:e15092. doi: 10.7554/eLife.15092. PMID: 27253067; PMCID: PMC4915811.
- Cioffi R, Lubetzky AV. BOXVR Versus Guided YouTube Boxing for Stress, Anxiety, and Cognitive Performance in Adolescents: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. Games Health J. 2023 Jun;12(3):259-268. doi: 10.1089/g4h.2022.0202. Epub 2023 Feb 6. PMID: 36745402; PMCID: PMC10254970.
