An Ideal Exercise for Strong Body, Strong Mind

Dave_BettyeJo_logoMany fitness friends know that exercise brings about lots of health benefits, but not too many know what type of exercise is best for both a strong body and a strong mind.  I came across a recent study that may surprise you.

 

 

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In this recent study in the Archives of Internal Medicine, researchers analyzed 77 women with self-reported memory problems and low scores on an objective assessment of cognitive function.  They were assigned to one of three exercise regimens:

Group 1: Lifted weights twice a week for an hour
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Group 2: Walked outside twice a week for an hour  (image courtesy of imagery majestic, FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

 

After six months, can you guess which group scored the best on memory and other mind tests?

While it would make sense to select Group 3 as balance exercises support significant neurological activity, it was Group 1 the weight lifters who performed better on memory and other mind tests than both the walkers and the stretchers.

About Dave Barnas, M.S., CES, NASM-CPT

Dave is the true health guy. He is the founder and owner of True Health Unlimited, LLC, a personal health and fitness company in Tolland, CT & Wellness Writers, a subscription wellness newsletter service that incorporates live & virtual wellness workshops for companies across New England. Dave earned both a Bachelor's (1998) and Master's Degree (2000) in Nutritional Science from the University of Connecticut, and also holds certifications as a National Strength and Conditioning Association Certified Personal Trainer, National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer and Corrective Exercise Specialist, Aerobics and Fitness Association of America Group Instructor, and Nutrition Specialist. He's also the lead author for four published works. Dave has over 20 years of combined experience in nutrition counseling, dietary supplement advising, personal training, corrective exercise training, health coaching and public speaking. In addition, he's spent over 25 years studying spirituality, meditation, and personal growth strategies. Dave's clients are all ages: youth, college championship level athletes, folks in their retired years, and everywhere in between. He's worked with three of the nation's leading physicians as a dietary supplement advisor and been a guest lecturer at Harvard University, Yale University, UConn, St. Joseph College and various church groups, health clubs, and high schools. In 2013, he was invited to Whole Foods Market to share his Real Food Therapy Guide. And in 2015, Dave's funny "Snowga" (yoga in the snow) video caught the attention of The National Weather Channel, who aired it to shake off cabin fever and bring laughter. In 2016, Dave & Hollie (his wife) founded Wellness Writers and deliver evidence-based Wellness E-newsletters to spread a message of health and happiness to various businesses throughout the US. Dave currently serves as a personal trainer in Tolland as well as a wellness coach and writer for several businesses, gyms and wellness facilities throughout the US.

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