Remember when 'aerobics' was all the rage? All that waving and jumping... all that Lycra!

Well, (chiefly thanks to the annoying Dr Kawashima's Brain Training for the DS-Lite), "Brain Training" is the new rock and roll; but you don't need to spend a penny to maintain the health of your brain, and there are two other major plus points too:

• it can actually do you some good;
• no Lycra is involved.

We thought, with Christmas just around the corner, you might be feeling a little brain-swamped and would enjoy a decent (free) Brain Workout. So, here's a smart 20 minute callisthenics work out from Time.com. Enjoy!

Our 'C' graded Sudoku puzzles equate to moderate puzzles. You should be able to solve these completely with logical deduction - no guessing! Challenge yourself to solve them within the time limit.

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Our 'D' graded Sudoku puzzles equate to easy (or gentle) puzzles.

You should be able to solve these completely with logical deduction - no guessing! Challenge yourself to solve them within the time limit.

We welcome your comments on these puzzles, please Log in and tell us what you think.

Sudoku PocketMem Home

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If you cannot see the download files below this message you will need to log in / register for an account (its free).

The PocketMem is based on a booklet making idea often used in Primary schools. It is a useful way of turning an A4 piece of paper into a small (pocket-sized) booklet.

This is similar in many respects to PocketMods. However, the PocketMod is designed as an organisation tool, a PocketMem is primarily used as a learning or self-development tool.

PocketMems - free to download

Sudoku puzzles
Sudoku brain training style puzzles,with a unique grading system - can you complete them in the suggested time?

Mnemonics Training
Pub quiz material? These Mnemonic PocketMems will enable you to quickly learn a host of 'trivia' facts.

You can find out more about the excellent PocketMod organisational tool, and its many uses here: pocketmod.com

Question: Does 'Sudoku', really, really deliver Brain Training?

Answer: Yes.

Since it first appeared in the UK (in The Times newspaper in 2004) its popularity has grown considerably. This is partly due to the fact that Sudoku is solved simply by logic; there is no maths required.

The intense popularity of Sudoku may be due to the fact that it requires just enough (but not too much) brain work to give a great buzz of satisfaction when the puzzle is complete. The puzzle does not take up too much time and doesn't draw on special knowledge (like quizzes).

Computer programs to improve brain performance remain a booming business. Witness, for example, the sales of Dr Kawashima's Brain Training for the Nintendo DS Lite.

Some people buy these 'Brain Training' products because they've seen Johnny Ball use them on TV. Many feel they are buying into something that has been based on scientific research. However, the New York Times points out that although they may be inspired by science, their effectiveness has never been 'proven' by science.

In an article in 2007, the New York times indicated that the expensive products were no better at developing mental agility than any other puzzles or quizzes - like Sudoku, or crosswords. The article suggested that "instead of spending money on computer games" it would be better to "invest in a gym membership. Or just turn off the computer and go for a brisk walk."

No, this is not a sledging problem! This simple little puzzle dates back to the late 19th century. You are probably already familiar with the plastic version. Well this is a downloadable PC version (sorry, no Macs). To solve it you use your mouse to slide the tiles around the block. The software will generate an infinite variety of starting positions and it is a free download.

Why am I mentioning it here? Two reasons: to solve it effectively you need to look-ahead a few moves, this involves focusing your mind and planning - two essential features of 'Brain Training'. Secondly, many people who have played it say the sliding action has a calming, therapeutic effect on the mind.

Worth a try then.

Free Classic Slide Puzzle [Playshot.com - Download]

Sudoku is good for your brain, a PocketMem is good for your pocket... and your Publicity!

What do you get?
An eight-page Sudoku booklet from one A4 piece of paper; it's easy to carry in your pocket and the graded Sudoku puzzles will keep your brain agile for hours.

What do they cost?
Nothing, zilch, nada. Sudoku PocketMems are available as free downloads (see below).

How are the Sudoku puzzles graded?
Ah, I'm glad you asked.

Our PocketMem puzzles come in four flavours, graded according to a useful little naming rule:

• easy (or gentle) puzzles have names beginning with 'D': Delta, Dream, Delight;
  
• moderate puzzles have the initial 'C': Cloud, Cobra;
  
• tough puzzles - 'B': Belarus, Beguile;
  
• Diabolical puzzles - 'A': Anaconda, Agrimony.

Where are the files?
Go to the graded puzzles here:
D: Sudoku PocketMems
C: Sudoku PocketMems