Benefits of exercise for vision

For a long time, it was widely believed that physical activity could be harmful to vision. But the latest discoveries of scientists have made it possible to look at this relationship from a new angle.

What scientists have found

In the summer of 2020, the results of a study were published on the website of the University of Virginia School of Medicine (USA), during which scientists analyzed the relationship between physical activity and some common eye diseases ^[1]. In particular, according to data obtained by scientists, physical activity not only does not harm the eyes, but can slow down and even prevent the development of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and some other disorders that cause blindness in old age.

A study in mice showed that physical activity reduced the growth of blood vessels in the eyes by almost 45%. Namely, this factor is a key factor in the emergence of a number of ophthalmic diseases leading to loss of vision.

What kind of exercises are good for the eyes

Scientists from the already mentioned University of Virginia made their conclusions after observing laboratory mice that ran on a wheel. Physical activity improved blood circulation and thus served as a factor preventing the growth of blood vessels. But at the same time, the researchers found another interesting fact. A positive ophthalmic effect was achieved at low levels of physical activity, and increased exercise was not a factor in obtaining even better results. On the contrary, when the experimental mice increased the load, the previously obtained indicator decreased from 45% to 32%. ^[2]. The fact that any physical activity improves blood circulation in the body, including activating the blood supply to the organs of vision, even before the study of American scientists, Russian ophthalmologists were sure. In childhood, when vision is being formed, physical activity is shown, especially in the fresh air. An active lifestyle contributes to the development of muscles, including oculomotor muscles, which are important for good vision. ^[3].

It is believed that ordinary gymnastics is enough to get a positive effect on vision. The list of recommended exercises for the eyes also includes:

• jogging or at a slow pace;
• sports walking;
• a ride on the bicycle;
• swimming.

In addition, according to American researchers, calm running or active walking helps reduce the risk of age-related cataracts. Exercising 3 or more times a week is a good prevention of macular degeneration, and light exercise can reduce eye pressure in young people with glaucoma ^[4].

When and what sport is contraindicated

Scientists, speaking about the effect of physical activity on vision, emphasize that it is important to understand the difference between the permissible load and the maximum (extreme) one. Specialists are aware of cases when in women giving birth, against the background of an excessive increase in pressure in the blood vessels of the eyes, their vision temporarily disappeared completely or worsened. A similar thing happens during extreme stress during sports. But if the exercises are performed at a level sufficient to maintain physical fitness, and not with the goal of breaking world records, then the benefits for the eyes are obvious. Thus, even bodybuilding can be safe from the point of view of ophthalmology, if you do not exceed your level of endurance. ^[5].

Physical activity is contraindicated in moderate and high myopia, as it can provoke even more severe damage to the retina. If myopia is not high, then moderate exercise can even be beneficial. This is especially true of childhood and adolescence, when visual impairments are just beginning to form. Boxing and various types of martial arts, in which there is a risk of eye injury, are among those harmful to vision. ^[3].

By the way, at one time scientists from the University of California conducted an interesting study. They observed 18 volunteers who exercised on an exercise bike with varying intensity. During the experiment, experts discovered an interesting pattern. At a lower load intensity, the areas of the brain responsible for the perception and processing of visual information are activated. In other words, there is a sharpening of vision. If the load is high, visual acuity decreases. The existence of such a relationship was also confirmed by the athletes involved in running. After hard long races, many notice a deterioration in their vision. Experts explain this fact by changes in pressure in the blood vessels, as well as dehydration of the body. ^[6].

Recent studies have only once again confirmed that moderate sports activities are only a plus for the body. But while playing sports, do not forget to visit an ophthalmologist regularly and check the health of your eyes.

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