Health · Medical Research · 2 hrs ago
A 10-Minute Very Slow Run Improved Brain Task Scores and Mood
Researchers in Japan found that one 10-minute very slow run improved test performance in a study of 24 young, healthy adults.
Participants ran on a treadmill at a pace set for very light effort, averaging 3.39 mph for males and 2.40 mph for females.
Each participant also completed a control session, sitting on a stationary treadmill for 10 minutes.
After running, participants did better on a test of inhibitory control, a skill used to manage distractions and make decisions.
The researchers also observed increased activity in several parts of the prefrontal cortex, and participants said they felt more energized and content.
The mood and brain effects were measured immediately after one session, so the study does not show whether they last or result from regular running.
A study found that one 10-minute session of very slow running improved participants’ executive-function task scores and mood.
Researchers in Japan studied 24 young, healthy adults, who each took part in a slow-running session and a seated control session.
The running was set at an intensity of 35% of each participant’s peak oxygen uptake.
Participants ran at average speeds of 3.39 mph for males and 2.40 mph for females.
After running, participants reported feeling more energized and content, and brain scans showed increased activation in multiple prefrontal cortex subregions.
- Who
- Researchers in Japan studied 24 young, healthy adults: 13 males and 11 females.
- What
- A study found that a 10-minute session of very slow running improved executive-function task scores and mood.
- When
- The research was conducted in August 2026. The article was published November 3, 2026.
- Where
- Participants ran on a treadmill. The researchers were in Japan.
- Why
- The researchers wanted to test whether a single bout of very light-intensity running affected brain function, particularly executive functioning.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Researchers in Japan set out to test the effects of a single session of very light-intensity running.
Participants completed cognitive and mood assessments before and immediately after running or sitting for 10 minutes.
- Participants
- 24 young, healthy adults: 13 males and 11 females
- Running session
- 10 minutes at 35% of peak oxygen uptake
- Average running speed, males
- 3.39 mph
- Average running speed, females
- 2.40 mph
- Study location
- Japan
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