WHY Exercise is so Underrated (Brain Power & Movement Link)
Exercise increases blood flow to the brain. This brings more oxygen and nutrients to the brain cells, which helps them to function better.
Exercise promotes neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells. This is especially important in the hippocampus, a region of the brain that is involved in memory and learning.
Exercise increases the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a protein that helps to protect and repair existing neurons, and to encourage the growth of new ones.
Exercise reduces inflammation in the brain. Inflammation is linked to a number of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Exercise improves mood and reduces stress. This can also have a positive impact on brain function.
Research has shown that exercise can improve cognitive function in people of all ages, from children to older adults. It can also help to reduce the risk of developing dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week. They also recommend that adults do muscle-strengthening activities that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms) on two or more days a week.
Any type of exercise is beneficial for the brain, but some types, such as aerobic exercise and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), are especially beneficial. Aerobic exercise increases the heart rate and breathing rate, and it gets the blood pumping to the brain. HIIT involves alternating short bursts of intense activity with brief periods of rest. HIIT has been shown to be particularly effective for improving cognitive function.
Here are some examples of exercises that are good for the brain:
Aerobic exercise: walking, running, biking, swimming, dancing
HIIT: sprinting, burpees, jumping jacks, mountain climbers
Muscle-strengthening exercises: lifting weights, using resistance bands, doing bodyweight exercises like push-ups and sit-ups
If you are new to exercise, start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts over time. It is also important to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any health conditions.
Sources
info
issuu.com/rickdelarosa/docs/hmt_dec_2020__2_
www.atlantadunia.com/dunia/health/Articledetail.aspx?q=23
issuu.com/crossroadsnews/docs/jun1116