Learning a new song on a musical instrument can be a challenging and time-consuming process, requiring focus, practice, and patience.
However, recent research suggests that a single session of exercise before practicing or learning a new song may improve motor memory retention, making it easier for musicians to learn songs and play their instruments more effectively.
The study "A Single Bout of Exercise Improves Motor Memory" conducted by Roig et al. in 2012 found that a single session of exercise can enhance motor memory.
The researchers asked participants to learn a finger-tapping sequence and assigned them randomly to either an exercise group or a control group.
The exercise group engaged in 15 minutes of moderate-intensity cycling before learning the finger-tapping sequence, while the control group rested for 15 minutes.
The researchers found that the exercise group had improved motor memory retention compared to the control group, which was attributed to the increased levels of the protein brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain.
BDNF is a protein that is involved in learning and memory, and it has been found to be elevated after exercise.
This increase in BDNF may help to create new neural connections in the brain, which can facilitate the learning and retention of motor skills, such as playing a musical instrument.
Therefore, musicians who engage in a single session of exercise before practicing their instrument or learning a new song may benefit from improved motor memory retention, allowing them to learn songs easier and play their instrument more effectively.
In addition to improving motor memory, exercise has numerous other benefits that can enhance musical performance.
Exercise can improve cardiovascular health, which can lead to increased stamina and endurance while playing an instrument.
It can also reduce stress and anxiety, which can interfere with musical performance, by increasing the release of endorphins and other feel-good hormones in the brain.
Here are 10 steps that you can take to put the idea of using exercise to improve motor memory retention into practice:
Set aside time in your daily or weekly schedule for exercise sessions. This could be as simple as a 15-30 minute walk, jog, or bike ride before your practice or rehearsal.
Engage in moderate-intensity exercises that increase your heart rate and breathing rate. These could include cycling, brisk walking, jogging, or swimming.
Aim to exercise before your practice or rehearsal, as this has been found to be more effective in improving motor memory retention.
Begin your exercise session with a brief warm-up to prepare your muscles and joints for the exercise. This could include stretching, light jogging, or jumping jacks.
Combine aerobic exercises, such as cycling or running, with resistance exercises, such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises, to maximize the release of BDNF.
Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your exercise sessions to stay hydrated.
Keep track of your progress over time to see how your exercise routine is affecting your motor memory retention and musical performance.
If you're unsure about how to design an exercise routine that's appropriate for your needs and goals, consider working with a personal trainer or coach who specializes in working with musicians.
To reap the benefits of exercise on motor memory retention, it's important to make it a regular habit. Aim to exercise at least 3-4 times per week for best results.
In addition to exercise, consider incorporating other memory-enhancing techniques into your practice routine, such as visualization, repetition, and chunking, to further improve your motor memory retention.
What you prefer to do before practicing your instrument?
Exercise
Sleep
Eat
Read
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