Exercise obviously has so many benefits in life. It is of no wonder then that it also benefits the brain itself. The functioning and blood flow to the brain all benefits from good exercise. It can strengthen white matter, neural transmission and brain functioning in regards to memory. Physicians, life coaches, and personal trainers can all help individuals discover the best work out for their age and physical and mental needs.
The article, “How Exercise Protects Your Brain’s Health” from Cleveland Clinic’s Healthessentials takes a closer look at how brain functioning and memory are directly affected by exercise. The article looks at the importance of exercise based off a study that looked at brain function combined with exercise. It also looks at the effects of exercise on dementia. Finally, the article related what type of workout is best for overall brain health. The article states,
“Aerobic exercises are the ones to focus on here. That’s activities like running, jogging, biking, swimming or even dancing. Exercises that get your heart rate up are the best for your brain. For most people, the goal of physical exercise should be to engage in vigorous physical activity three days per week for 15 minutes. Or, if high-intensity workouts don’t work for you because of health concerns or other reasons, you can aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity five days per week to get similar brain-boosting effects, Dr. Ross notes.”
“How Exercise Protects Your Brain’s Health”. Cleveland Clinic Healthessentials. September 27th, 2022.
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Commentary
There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that brain function and exercise are linked. For example, one study found that people who engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity had better cognitive function than those who didn’t. Additionally, another study found that regular aerobic exercise was associated with increased grey matter volume in the brain. This includes both cognitive and motor function. While the mechanisms underlying this link are not fully understood, it is thought that exercise may improve brain health by promoting neurogenesis, reducing inflammation, and increasing levels of neurotrophic factors. These findings suggest that there is a link between brain function and exercise. Exercise also helps to reduce stress and anxiety, which can have a negative impact on brain function. Furthermore, exercise stimulates the release of chemicals that protect the brain from damage and improve nerve cell function. However, more research is needed to determine the exact nature of this link.
Exercise and Memory
In regards to memory, exercise is very important
There is evidence to suggest that memory and exercise are interconnected. One study found that participants who engaged in regular physical activity had better working memory than those who did not. Furthermore, another study found that older adults who participated in a moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program showed improved cognitive function, including improved memory, compared to those who did not exercise.
Exercise has been shown to be beneficial for overall brain health, including reducing the risk of dementia. Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability due to disease or injury. Exercise can help to improve brain function by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain, as well as by stimulating the growth of new nerve cells.
In addition to dementia, there is growing evidence that physical activity may be protective against cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s disease. One theory is that exercise promotes brain health by increasing levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a protein that supports the growth, development, and maintenance of neurons. Exercise may also help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the brain.
Types of Exercise for Better Brain Health
Most suggest aerobic exercise of 15 minute intervals at least 3 times a week. Others suggest as well at least 7500 steps a day. Movement and keeping the blood circulating are key, so any exercises associated with this can help. Swimming, walking, biking, or running are all excellent ways to help brain function.
Life Coaching
Life coaching is a process whereby an individual is supported in achieving specific personal and professional goals. The coach acts as a sounding board and provides guidance and feedback, but the client is ultimately responsible for taking action and making decisions. Exercise is often recommended as part of a life coaching program, as it can help to improve physical and mental health.
There is a growing body of evidence indicating that life coaching may be an effective strategy for promoting brain health. A life coach can help individuals identify and achieve personal goals, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and manage stress effectively. Furthermore, a life coach can provide support and accountability to help individuals stick to healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, brain health and exercise are two important factors that go hand-in-hand. By exercising regularly, you can not only improve your physical health, but also your mental wellbeing. A healthy brain leads to a better quality of life, so make sure to incorporate exercise into your daily routine! Life coaches, and personal trainers can help one implement a variety of exercises to help with overall brain cognition and functioning. Studies have shown that exercise and brain health correlate with each other.
Please also review AIHCP’s Healthcare Life Coaching Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as a life coach. Qualified applicants include healthcare professionals, personal trainers, nurses, and those with physical therapy, psychology, or person fitness type degrees.
Additional Resources
“Exercise Benefits Brain Function: The Monoamine Connection”. Tzu-Wei Lin and Yu-Min Kuo. Brain Sci. 2013, 3(1), 39-53; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci3010039. Access here
“The influence of exercise on brain aging and dementia”. Nicola T.Lautenschlager. KayCox. Elizabeth V.Cyarto. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) – Molecular Basis of Disease. Volume 1822, Issue 3, March 2012, Pages 474-481. Access here
“How Exercise Benefits Brain Health”. Vernon Williams, MD. U.S News: Health. Feb. 4th, 2022. Access here
“Working out your brain”. Matthew Solan. Harvard Health Publishing. December 1st, 2021. Access here