It’s not rocket science that regular exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle for adults and children. Yet, very few are aware that exercise could build your child a bigger, better brain (and possibly even help them become a rocket scientist!)
Exercise Works
The most commonly recognized benefits of physical activity include:
- Stronger muscles
- Increased bone density
- Better coordination
- Improved cardiovascular function
- Enhanced insulin sensitivity
The end result is a major decrease in lifestyle related illness such as Cancer, Heart Disease & Diabetes and many other related conditions in adults and children. These are all wonderful side effects of a consistent exercise program.
Less commonly known are the exciting effects of exercise on the brain and who more important to target with these effects than the developing brains of our most precious assets… our children.
What’s The Big Deal?
Not only do kids have the most neuro-plasticity (ability to change their brain and nervous systems) but they have the most potential as well. Think about it, anything done to improve their health or performance is multiplied exponentially the sooner positive change begins.
You’ve probably heard or seen this ancient proverb that captures the concept perfectly:
“As the twig is bent, so grows the tree.”
How would you love your kids to start experiencing any one of these benefits?
- Higher IQ
- Increase brain cell growth
- Boosted self esteem
- Deeper sleep
- Enhanced cognition
How Does It Happen?
First off, exercise improves blood flow to the brain which increases oxygenation of the cerebral tissues and number two, keeping up with a frequent fitness routine increases neurological input into the brain.
Think of your training sessions not only working your muscles and your lungs but also feeding the brain. In a sense, it’s a form of neurological nutrition that is vital to the growth and development of your neurons.
Even better, making exercise a habit for you and your kids has a long term protective effect. How about reversing the normal age related brain shrinkage as a bonus for your efforts!
Whether you’re worried about a future with Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s or you just want to begin thinking more clearly…
The best time to start training for a bigger, better brain is today, the next best time was 40 years ago. Let’s make sure our kids get ahead of the game and actively engage in a regular fitness routine.
Not only will their body benefit but their brain will too.