Acquiring new knowledge is beneficial for the brain, but not all types of learning can lead to the formation of new synapses. To foster the formation of new synapses, it is important to challenge the brain to coordinate and perform complex movements in conjunction with a specific task [38]. This could be acrobatic training, for example. Engaging in motor learning, such as learning a new technique in table tennis or juggling, can also lead to the formation of new synapses that help to improve that skill [39].
A study found that adult rats trained in complex acrobatic movements developed new synapses, while rats assigned to physical exercise or no activity did not [40]. The study also revealed no significant difference in the density of synapses between the group of rats that exercised and the group that did not, indicating that exercise alone may not be sufficient to promote the formation of new synapses [40].
