The clock is ticking, and your big exam starts in less than an hour. Every second counts, so you’re tempted to use each one for some last-minute cramming. But what if I told you that putting down the flashcards and picking up a jump rope could do more for your test performance than another round of frenzied studying?
A 10-minute workout might be your smartest test prep
Research shows that just 10 minutes of exercise before an exam can enhance your ability to focus, retain information and manage stress.
The benefits of a pre-exam workout
Even a brief bout of physical activity triggers the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which elevate mood and calm nerves. This allows you to enter the exam room with a more positive, centered mindset. Exercise also increases blood flow to the brain, sharpening alertness and concentration.
Studies have found that short exercise sessions can:
In one study, students who jogged for just 10 minutes before a test demonstrated faster reaction times and answered more questions correctly compared to their sedentary peers. Another experiment revealed that 20 minutes of moderate exercise enhanced students’ ability to recall a list of words both immediately and when tested again the next day.
Your 10-minute workout plan
To reap the cognitive rewards of a pre-exam workout, aim for 10-30 minutes of exercise at a moderate intensity – enough to get your heart pumping but not leave you exhausted. Here’s a simple routine you can do anywhere, even in a small dorm room:
Wrap up your workout with a minute or two of deep, controlled breathing to transition your mind into a calm, alert state. Inhale for a count of four, hold for four, then exhale for four.
The next time you’re facing down a big exam, don’t spend that last half hour frantically reviewing flashcards. Instead, take a quick exercise break to release tension and prime your brain to perform at its peak.
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