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