A single session of weight lifting can help you plan more effectively and improve memory according to a study published in the journal Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise. To test the theory, researchers had 30 middle aged subjects perform 7 different weight training exercises, each for 2 sets of 10 reps, with the resistance set at 70% of one rep max. A control group curled up on the couch with a good book.

Before and after training or reading, all subjects took a well-known test used to determine mental abilities. Resistance training did a better job of enhancing brain power compared to reading. The iron pumping subjects took fewer moves to achieve a higher correct score than the book worms. Pick up the weights and pump up more than just muscle.