March week 2
As stated again last week, physical and cognitive health are related. When exercising/moving our heart pumps more blood, therefore sending more oxygen and nutrients to the brain. This is also protection against illnesses like diabetes, which is a risk factor for Alzheimers. (which we discussed last week) It has also been found that lifting weights may improve our cognitive health possibly because of the brainpower it takes to maintain proper form so we don't hurt ourselves. I know in my cardio class part of the time is spent on weights, (UGH!) but I think I work harder during this part of the class hour than during the cardio piece. I attribute it to the concentration of maintaining appropriate posture while lifting weights (again, so as not to hurt myself). I don't want you to run out and bench press 200 pounds, but I suggest start out small with hand weights and work on proper form and upper body. (you may need to speak with a trainer/coach about this prior to starting) Not only will you be exercising your brain, you'll be building a stronger body for your future. Do any of you have more ideas for the rest of us on ways we can exercise our brains and bodies simultaneously?
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The Wii Fit Plus has many different activities that require the combined use of the brain and the body. For example, there is a game called Perfect 10. In this game, the player must balance and lean his/her body towards numbers on the screen, in order to add them up to a perfect ten. This game, along with many others, helps stimulate the player's brain and body at the same time.
ReplyDeleteJust as dmkddfun mentioned, there are many video games that can help with exercise. In addition to the Wii Fit Plus, I like to use some dancing games, such as Dance Dance Revolution and Just Dance 3. I think that dance exercises not only are beneficial because they help you lose weight, but they are fun as well. My mom is trying to involve me in a Zumba class, which I am thinking of doing also.
ReplyDeleteWe do the Kinnect and Wii Fit they use your brain and your body to play the sports and dance games.
ReplyDeleteJordan Zuniga
I agree, the gym helps build your brains and muscle. I usually do about 20 minutes of cardio first, then I go do weights for another 20, then finally I do another 20 minutes of cardio to cool down on.
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