While exercise is good for the body, Dr. John J. Ratey, MD, argues it is more important for the brain, especially when it comes to students in the classroom. Citing scientific studies and real world examples, this internationally recognized expert in the brain-exercise connection demonstrates how we can raise test scores, lower behavioral problems and help the overall well-being of today's students with fitness based physical education.

John J. Ratey, MD, is an associate clinical professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, research synthesizer, speaker and best-selling author. He has published over 60 peer-reviewed articles and seven books, including "A Users Guide to the Brain," and the groundbreaking "Driven to Distraction" series with Ned Hallowell, MD. John's latest book is "Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain." (http://www.amazon.com/Spark-Revolutionary-Science-Exercise-Brain/dp/0316113506)

Dr. Ratey has embarked on a world-wide mission to re-engineer schools, corporations and individual lifestyle practices by incorporating exercise to achieve peak performance and optimum mental health. Consistently named one of the Best Doctors in America by his peers, Dr. Ratey serves as Reebok's Ambassador for Active Kids, is an Advisor to the California Governor's Council on Physical Fitness Activity and Sport, and is an adjunct professor at Taiwan National Sports University. Dr. Ratey maintains a private practice in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and is currently working on a book examining our genetic roots and the influence on our psychology in a modern world, to be published by Little Brown in 2013. More information http://www.johnratey.com

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx