By Jeffrey T Spaeth LMT, CPT

When your brain is at rest, it uses about 20 percent of the body’s energy consumption. Exercising will help maintain that level, and studies show exercise may help reverse the effects of certain brain diseases. Experts add that aerobic exercise improves brain function and acts as a repair mechanism for damaged brain cells. In other words, exercise is good for the brain.

Exercise helps to stimulate the growth of new connections between cells. UCLA research has shown that “exercise increased growth factors in the brain, making it easier for the brain to grow new neural connections.”

Exercise In The Morning Makes For Sharp Thinking

Morning exercise spikes brain activities and makes stress easier to handle. It also helps you retain new information. The chemical known as BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) is released that stimulates the growth and regeneration of new cells. Results were seen in as little as four weeks and only 30 to 45 minutes of exercise per day.

In a study at Harvard Medical School, moderate to intense exercise may slow brain aging by 10 years. Exercise also improves sleep patterns and reduces stress and anxiety. New studies show exercising at least 150 minutes is what is needed to improve athletic performance.

Exercise can reduce the symptoms of depression. More than 350 million people suffer from the disease. Exercise mimics anti-depressant medicines. According to Psychology Today, exercise actually changes the chemical environment of the brain releasing dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin, the “feel good” chemicals.

So there you have it: proof that exercise is good for the brain and does more than just tone and strengthen. Stop on by the gym today and let’s take advice from the theme song from the Partridge family, “Come on, get happy.”

Our trainers at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club can help you develop a smart exercise program that will keep your body and brain in top shape.  Stop by the Fitness Center and get started on the smart and healthy new you!