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Tips to improve memory power of children: 4 basic exercises
ETimes | September 18, 2025 11:39 PM CST

Did you know physical exercises boost children ’s memory power? Science claims that body movement and brain function are deeply linked, especially in kids whose brains are still developing. Here are four physical exercises that can help sharpen your child's memory -

Aerobic exercise (running, skipping, cycling)
Aerobic movement increases blood flow to the brain, particularly the hippocampus, which is the area in the brain that is crucial for memory. Encourage at least 20–30 minutes of brisk activity daily—like skipping rope, cycling, or running games. According to a 2011 study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, aerobic exercise increases hippocampal volume and improves spatial memory in children and young adults.

Yoga and mindful movement
Yoga combines stretching, balance and breath control, which reduces stress hormones that can impair memory. Simple poses like Tree Pose , Cat-Cow and Child’s Pose can be taught while adding 5 minutes of deep breathing for best results. A 2016 study in Frontiers in Psychology found that schoolchildren practicing yoga had better attention and working memory compared to peers who didn’t.
Ball Games (catch, basketball, football)
Throwing, catching and dribbling improve hand-eye coordination and require constant prediction and recall, which are skills that are tied to working memory. A simple throw-and-recall game works so throw a ball while asking quiz questions and the child must answer while catching. A 2013 study in the Journal of Cognitive Enhancement established that children who engaged in team ball games had improved working memory and attention compared to sedentary peers.

Martial arts or structured movement ( Karate , Taekwondo)
Martial arts combine physical fitness with discipline and memory through step sequences (“katas” or forms). Enrolling in a beginner martial arts class, even once a week, helps kids practice memory through movement sequences. A 2004 study in the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology showed that martial arts training improved self-regulation and working memory in elementary students.

Aerobic play, yoga, ball games and martial arts are not just great for physical health but also powerful tools for boosting children’s memory and focus. Even 20–40 minutes a day makes a measurable difference.


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