Fit Body – Fit Brain

 

  • It’s unequivocal that the brain works better on exercise
  • Aerobic exercise positively impacts brain structure, function and cognition
    • Increased oxygen to brain, enhancing neural pathways, increased gray matter (memory), increase in neurotransmitters Gaba & glutamate (mood enhancing/counteracts depression)
  • Runners tend to have greater connectivity between brain regions
  • Anti-aging effects – protects against cognitive decline with age = younger brain. Sparks production of neuron nourishing growth factors. Can reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s
  • Brain becomes much more active during exercise, mental state becomes more positive. Self confidence positively impacted.

 

 

Body-Brain Circuit:

 

  • Partner Reaction (Neuromuscular Priming)
  • Stand behind partner while they face away from you running on the spot
  • Partner responds to touch (i.e. touch partners right arm they raise their arm)
  • Complete in 1min intervals
  • *if no partner choose a sequence (i.e. R. arm, L. leg, jump, Squat…repeat)

 

  • T-drill (Aerobic/Agility)
  • Start at the base of the imaginary T and run to the top
  • Side shuffle left then right then back to the stem of the T
  • Back peddle (backwards run) to the bottom of the T and repeat
  • Complete for 1min

 

  • Single Leg Reach (Balance)
  • Stand on left foot, slowly hinge forward from hips keeping spine straight
  • Touch marker on ground with left hand
  • Move back to tall standing position on left foot
  • Continue for 30sec then continue on right leg with left hand reach for 30sec

 

  • Uni-loaded Split Press (Strength/Stability/Coordination)
  • Load right side of a light barbell with approx. 5-10lbs
  • Holding bar at collarbone level, step back quickly with right leg into a deep lunge while pressing bar upwards towards ceiling (lock out elbows).
  • Bring bar back to collarbone level as you step back to start position
  • Repeat for 30sec
  • Turn bar around so load is on the left side and repeat for 30sec by stepping back with left leg.

 

5) Shuffle Plyo Lunge (Strength/Power)

  • Standing with slightly bent knees shuffle sideways to the left then drop into a lunge (left leg forward).
  • Immediately jump out of lunge and shuffle to the right then drop into a lunge with right leg forward.
  • Complete for 1min

 

  • Popcore (Core)
  • Lie on your back with knees and arms tucked in toward chest
  • Draw belly button towards spine (tighten abs)
  • Simultaneously extend legs and arms out wide away from chest while elevating upper and mid back off the ground
  • Hold for 2sec, then return to starting position
  • Continue for 1min