7 myths about brain training, debunked

We hear a lot about ways to keep our brains sharp—whether it’s through memory games, focus exercises, or attention-boosting challenges. But not everything we’ve heard about how brain training works is actually true.

Some ideas are based on outdated science. Others have been stretched a little too far by popular media. So we’ve decided to take a closer look at some of the most common myths about the brain—especially those tied to cognitive training—and explain what the research really says.

7 myths about the brain

If you’ve ever wondered what actually improves brain function, you’re in the right place.

Myth #1: Brain training can make you smarter overall

It’s true that training your brain with apps and games can help sharpen certain skills, like memory or focus. But that doesn’t mean it boosts overall intelligence. In scientific terms, brain training often improves near transfer tasks (the ones closely related to what you’re practicing) rather than far transfer tasks (totally different skills, like reasoning or abstract thinking).

One study analyzed over 130 studies and found that while brain training can improve task performance, it doesn’t necessarily make people “smarter” in a general sense.

Myth #2: You only need a few minutes a day to change your brain

Quick brain boosts are appealing, and short sessions do help with consistency, but real, lasting results require regular, long-term training. Many of the studies showing benefits from cognitive training involved programs that lasted several weeks or months, not five minutes here and there.

That doesn’t mean your brain needs hours of training every day. It means meaningful change builds gradually over time. In fact, consistency with the right kind of activities is more important than duration alone.

Myth #3: Brain games are all you need to stay sharp

Brain games are a great tool—but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Long-term brain health depends just as much (if not more) on physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and staying socially connected.

The World Health Organization and Alzheimer’s Association both emphasize a whole-body approach to cognitive health. That includes things like regular walks, eating omega-3s, sleeping well, and catching up with friends. If you’re only doing puzzles and skipping the rest, your brain’s missing out.

Myth #4: You can “rewire” your brain with willpower and exercises

Your brain can change and adapt. But it’s not as much as some Instagram posts suggest. Your brain can form new connections with practice, but things like age, mental health, and life environment all shape how much change is possible.

It’s not just about “believing hard enough.” Building new habits takes time and context. That’s why structured, personalized tools—like what Elevate offers—are more effective than generic one-size-fits-all advice.

Myth #5: Brain training works the same for everyone

There’s no universal brain training formula. What works for one person might not work for another. Why? Because baseline skills, learning style, motivation, and even the importance of sleep to cognitive health affect how well cognitive training “sticks.”

That’s why Elevate offers a personalized program—because the science says customization matters. If training doesn’t match your needs, it won’t be as effective.

Myth #6: Brain training prevents dementia

No app—Elevate included—can claim to prevent dementia. That’s just not something any training program can promise. And while certain activities may help delay symptoms or keep cognitive skills stronger for longer, they’re not a guarantee.

This doesn’t mean brain training is useless. It means it should be part of a broader brain health routine, not the only line of defense. And it’s especially important to avoid guilt or blame if someone develops memory loss despite doing “all the right things.”

Myth #7: Left brain vs. right brain determines how you learn

You’ve probably heard that left-brained people are logical and right-brained folks are creative. But modern science says that’s not how brains work. Both hemispheres are involved in nearly every task, and learning styles aren’t divided down the middle.

So... what does work for brain health?

Brain training myths aside, here’s what science consistently shows supports long-term cognitive health:

• Regular aerobic exercise: Improves memory and thinking skills
• Consistent sleep: Essential for processing and storing new information
• Balanced nutrition: Supports brain structure and energy
• Mental challenges: Like brain games, puzzles, or learning something new
• Social interaction: Helps maintain emotional and cognitive resilience
• Stress reduction: Chronic stress can shrink brain volume and slow learning

Adding just one of these to your daily routine can make a measurable difference. The most effective approach? A mix of structured cognitive training and real-life healthy habits.

Smarter brain training starts here

Brain training isn’t a myth—but not all claims are created equal. It’s not a magic wand. And it’s not something you can “hack” in one session. But with the right structure, tools, and mindset, you can make real progress.

Elevate is designed to be part of that solution: backed by science, grounded in realistic expectations, and built to help you train smarter. With over 40 expert-designed games, Elevate strengthens the skills that matter most: focus, memory, communication, and more.

FAQs about brain training

Does brain training really work?

Yes—with a caveat. Brain training can improve performance on specific tasks (like memory or math), but it doesn't raise general intelligence. Studies show it’s most effective when personalized and done consistently.

Can brain training prevent dementia?

No brain game or app has been proven to prevent dementia. That said, cognitive training may help delay symptoms when paired with healthy habits like exercise and sleep.

How long does it take to see results from brain training?

Many studies involve training over weeks or months. Some users see short-term improvements quickly, but long-term benefits come from regular practice.

Is the left brain vs. right brain idea true?

No. Research has shown that both sides of the brain work together on most tasks. The “creative right brain vs. logical left brain” concept is outdated.

What’s the best way to improve brain function naturally?

A combination of physical fitness, mental challenges, healthy eating, quality sleep, and social interaction gives your brain the best support.

Want to train your brain the science-backed way?

Download the Elevate app and build your own brain training routine. It's effective, personalized, and fits into your day—without the hype.