Jun 18, 2024 20:00:00

Muscle-stressing exercises such as push-ups and dumbbell exercises may have a positive effect on brain health

Moderate exercise has been shown to have various benefits, such as

improving sleep quality and reducing the risk of heart disease . Previous studies have shown that resistance exercises that put stress on muscles, such as dumbbell exercises, squats, and push-ups, have a positive effect on maintaining brain health.

The Surprising Brain-Health Benefits of Weightlifting | Psychology Today
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-modern-brain/202402/the-surprising-benefits-of-weightlifting-for-brain-health

The benefits of resistance exercise have been confirmed before, and

a study from Tohoku University reported that 'muscle-strengthening activities show an inverse correlation with the risk of death from major non-communicable diseases, such as cerebrovascular disease , cancer, and diabetes.'

In addition, it has been shown that resistance exercise improves brain function. Previous studies have shown that type 2 diabetes patients are 77% more likely to develop depression than healthy people, and that high fasting blood sugar levels increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

On the other hand, weight training, which includes resistance exercise, has been shown to have the following effects: ' Reduces blood glucose levels for 24 hours and insulin levels for 18 hours after exercise .' ' Helps lower three-month blood glucose levels in people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. ' ' Improves blood glucose levels and insulin requirements in pregnant women. ' ' Improves insulin sensitivity in the elderly. '

In addition, resistance exercise may allow skeletal muscle-produced

myokines to enter the brain and have beneficial effects. Myokines include a factor called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is strongly linked to the process of neuroplasticity, helping to strengthen connections between brain cells and generate new cells.

Resistance exercise has also been reported to be related to improved immune balance and reduced inflammation. In fact, a research team led by Camilla Tuttle of the University of Melbourne has reported that people with more muscle mass and those with greater grip strength and knee bending and straightening ability tend to have lower levels of inflammation.

The overseas media, Psychology Today, introduces how to do effective resistance exercise. Below is an overview.

Start lightly and gradually increase the load
If you are new to resistance exercise, consult a trainer to learn the proper technique.
Go to the gym or do online sessions and train with others
- Use exercise bands properly
Listen to your body to prevent injury
・Do leg presses and squats, and always train your lower body.
Get enough protein, which is key to muscle growth