Boost Your Body - Boost Your Brain
Boost Your Body - Boost Your Brain
So during this unprecedented time when the majority of us are “homebound” as a result of COVID-19, something different and positive in my life has occurred! As a personal trainer and group fitness instructor my days are typically filled with mostly physical activity - training and teaching usually starting around 5:30 am until late afternoon. In the evenings, I prepare dinner, take care of housekeeping items, do some gardening, possibly play a round or two or three of pickleball, frequently ride my bike, teach additional classes, shower and crash by 8:30 p.m. only to do it all over again the next day!! Since our fitness studio has been temporarily closed, I have had to slow things down from mainly a physical perspective and shift my focus. I still exercise daily, but most of my time is now occupied with blogging, webinars, podcasts, continuing education courses, research, etc. which I am actually enjoying. I noticed the “large stack” of books I have been wanting to read each evening, but interestingly enough, would previously find myself falling asleep in 10 minutes after my busy, active days!
The good news is I have had a wonderful opportunity to “feed my brain”! But the best news is research is now proving that exercise also enhances brain function as we age. Brain training also called neuroplasticity (movement with brain games) is now being incorporated into many senior fitness programs to improve cognitive health. When we think of the benefits of exercise, we tend to think of its ability to reduce cardiovascular disease, strengthen bones and muscles and control weight. However, the added benefit to consistent exercise is that it can enhance cognition and memory and can protect against age-related cognitive decline. Additionally, a recent study demonstrates that resistance exercise or weight training specifically has the greatest impact on cognitive function. This trial shows the superior benefits of strength training with a wealth of past evidence supporting the value of exercise in preventing loss of muscle, cognitive decline and the onset of neurodegenerative disease. Clearly resistance training is not just essential for the health of your body, but is an essential component to the health of your brain!
In conclusion, I have had the best of both worlds these days - getting my exercise in each day and exploring other avenues to “boost my body” and “boost my brain”. Overall, my life seems a little more calm, relaxed and balanced. So possibly a blessing in disguise even in these challenging times. And I have a feeling others have benefited in different ways too as they work from home, spend creative, quality time with family-riding bikes, playing games, watching movies together and yes reading all those books!!
References: Mavros Y, Gates N, Wilson GC. Cognitive function improvements after resistance training in older adults. American Geriatrics Society 2016. Nagamatsu LS, Handy TC, Hsu CL. Resistance training promotes cognitive and functional brain plasticity in seniors. Arch Intern Med 2012