Train Your Brain and Body at the Same Time!
By Alice Burron on October 12, 2011
By Alice Burron –
No one can argue that physical exercise is important for the health of your body, but evidently it also keeps your brain sharp. Two new studies were presented at the 2011 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Paris that added to the growing body of research suggesting that exercise can help protect your brain against mental decline that occurs with aging.
Physical exercise in general increases blood flow to all cells, tissues and organs, and allows for more oxygen to make its way to the brain—great for brain health and function. Exercise has also been found to stimulate the formation of new neuronal connections responsible for learning and quick thinking.
Another unexpected benefit of exercise is an immediate antidepressant-like effect following exercise. The hormones responsible were also linked with an increase in the size of an area of the brain that is associated with learning and memory called the cell growth, particularly in the hippocampus.
For the best overall health benefit the Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity (like brisk walking 20 minutes a day) or 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity (such as running), preferably spread throughout the week.
One study done by the Department of Exercise Science at the University of Georgia found that even a brief 20 minute session of exercise can immediately increase information processing and memory functions. In addition, research published in the journal of Neurology found that walking about six miles a week may keep your brain sharp as you get older. Researchers from the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference found that a brisk 30-minute daily walk can delay mental aging by five to seven years.
To get the most brain-specific benefit from exercise consider these tips:
- Look for an activity that incorporates coordination with cardiovascular exercise, such as water aerobics or a dance class like Zumba®. These types of coordinated exercises have been associated with the most mental function benefit.
- If you like to lift weights, try circuit training work outs, in which 8-10 exercises for different muscle groups are completed one right after another with little or no rest taken between exercises. Perform each exercise for a specified number of repetitions or length of time (ex. 10-12 repetitions or 1 minute). The total number of circuits depends on how many exercises you chose, and how much time you want to work out. The double-benefit of circuit training is that it strengthens muscles and works your cardiovascular system by increasing your heart rate.
- Exercise in the morning before going to work or performing a thought-provoking task so that you can take advantage of your increased mental function. It will also keep your stress levels under better control.
- If you enjoy walking, try incorporating walking poles into your walk for an extra upper-body workout and increased brain benefit.
Remember to always check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
Alice Burron earned a master’s in physical education with an emphasis in exercise physiology from the University of Wyoming. She is an affiliate spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and is an ACE certified personal trainer and certified Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant. Her first book, Four Weeks to Fabulous, is aimed at helping the busy person lose weight using sound nutrition, weight control and exercise principles that are proven successful. Visit her on her website at www.2bfit.net.
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