You can improve your cognitive functions with this exercise
Aerobics can be a fun and engaging way to keep your body fit and toned.
Recent research in the Journal Neurology found even more benefits. Aerobic exercise is a good way to improve your health and executive functions. This includes cognitive functions such as:
* Inhibition : The ability to suppress unwanted thoughts or impulses.
* Working Memory: The ability to store and manipulate information.
* cognitive flexibility: ability to adapt or shift attention to changing tasks demands.
Problem solving and planning: The ability to create and implement plans in order to achieve goals.
* Task Initiation: The ability to start a task.
Ability to monitor own performance:
* Organisation: The ability to plan, prioritize, manage time and maintain an information system.
* Mental Set Shifting: The ability to adapt to new rules or situations.
* Attention: The ability to focus for a long period of time.
* The ability to control one’s emotions and behavior:
What is Aerobics?
Aerobics is a combination of low-to-moderate-intensity exercises with stretching and strengthening exercises. It’s designed to improve cardiorespiratory fitness and includes activities such as:
* Running
* Jogging
* Cycling
* Swimming
* Jumping rope
* Rowing
* Elliptical training
* Dancing
* Kickboxing
* High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
* Walking (at a brisk pace)
* Skipping
* Stair climbing
* Rollerblading
* Water aerobics
* Aerobic gymnastics
* Zumba
* Pilates
* Yoga
How Aerobics Can Benefit Your Brain Health
Aerobic exercise increases oxygenation in the blood. This helps deliver nutrients and oxygen essential to the brain, as well as the rest of the human body. This promotes the growth of new brain cells, increases neural plasticity, improves mood and overall cognitive function.
Recent research published in Neurology has shown that aerobic exercise training improves brain health and increases cognitive function. The researchers also discovered that aerobic exercise is associated with an increase in cortical thickening, something that decreases as we age and can contribute to cognitive decline.
These benefits were more prominent with age. This suggests that aerobic exercise is especially beneficial for older adults and for those who are at risk of cognitive decline .
Get Started with Aerobics
It is easy to get started in aerobics. You can do it in many different ways. There are also classes and other resources available to help you if needed.
Here are some tips to get you started:
You should find an activity you enjoy. Everyone is different when it comes down to their preferences. It may take a while to find the right activity for you.
Start off small. When you are new to aerobics you should start with shorter sessions.
* Find someone to exercise with. Working out with a family member or friend can make the workout more fun and easier to maintain.
* Create a routine. Set aside a time each day to exercise. You can make aerobics part of your everyday routine by doing this.
Consult your doctor if you have any concerns about your health or limitations before beginning any new exercise routine. You can ask them to help you decide which activity is best for you, and if any modifications are needed.
