You see it on TV read about it in magazines and if you surf the net it is everywhere. However just what is brain training? In short it is just that methods of training or exercising your brain just as you do your body. However the long answer is even more intriguing.
Brain training consists of a series of exercises puzzles and other brain games that are designed to stimulate different areas of the brain in effect giving it a “work out” much as exercising at the gym does for the body. While research is rather sparse about the validity of the claims that brain training will make a person smarter increase cognitive ability and boost memory there is evidence that at least certain programs do have positive effects on the brain. In short some actually do work.
Peter Snyder a neuroscientist at Brown University reviewed several brain training studies. In his findings he reported that there were some brain training programs available that did have scientific studies to back up their claims. In addition they did indeed work. These programs delivered on the claims of improved brain functions that extended beyond the parroting of activities practiced by the test subjects. In other words they subjects did not just get better at the exercises the practiced with the program their brains showed increased function in other areas too.
While brain training does take a person through a series of exercises or games that focus on different areas like say computation or memory studies show that other areas of the brain benefit from these activities as well.
There are numerous brain training web sites where people can engage in a variety of activities. Some seem more like video games while others may seem more like homework or schoolwork. Some may resemble portions of traditional IQ tests and others are so much fun the participant may forget that they are even exercising their brain. Most sites will address different areas of cognitive function while others focus primarily on the memory aspects of training (you will never lose your car keys again!).
One should approach a brain training program much the same way they would approach any other training program professional development course or even college. Evaluate the course offerings examine the method of training determine if the cost if within budget and decide if the program is something that can fit within their schedule. It is useless to enroll in a program if it will not be used especially if an investment is involved.
Real enthusiasts in improving their mental performance will also be interested in brain foods. These foods contain various vitamins, minerals, and other substances that are said to enhance alertness, memory and problem solving skills. If you are looking into a brain training course or program, be sure to read reviews by people who have completed the program or who are using it. It is even better to talk to them if possible, even if online. There is a lot to be learned from the experiences of others. Overall though it is worth the time to investigate brain training programs. The evidence indicates that in at least some cases they can give real benefits!
