Student Article

Why Your Brain Avoids Exercise!

By: Dean Burnett

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Originally Published in Science Focus

We all know that working out makes us feel better. So why is it so hard?

The article "Why Your Brain Avoids Exercise!" from BBC Science Focus explores the reasons why humans often avoid physical activity despite its benefits. It discusses the brain's sensitivity to effort, the tendency to avoid discomfort, and how motivation and willpower can help overcome these challenges.

Student Article Info

BBC's Science Focus is packed with news, discoveries, ideas and innovations to keep you up-to-speed with the complexities of the fast-moving world around us. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Student Article Info

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Keywords

exercise brain motivation willpower physical activity reward strength

Student Article Info

BBC's Science Focus is packed with news, discoveries, ideas and innovations to keep you up-to-speed with the complexities of the fast-moving world around us. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Student Article Info

Grades:

Subject:

Topic:

Grades:

Subject:

Topic:

Keywords

exercise brain motivation willpower physical activity reward strength

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

Level 1 Reading Passage

Grades: 3-5, Lexile Level: 400-600L

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Level 2 Reading Passage

Grades: 6-8, Lexile Level: 700-900L

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Level 3 Reading Passage

Grades: 9-12, Lexile Level: 900-1100L

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