No Dumbbells Here: How Strength Training Can Build Your Brain by Mei Marcie

Strength training can improve cognitive function? That's what a study by the University of Sydney, Australia, found. The study examined 100 adults with MCI, short for mild cognitive impairment, which is an indicator of the likelihood of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The group that did weightlifting – instead of cognitive training or no exercise – showed improved brain cognitive function. Exercise has also been previously found to:

• improve cardiovascular health

• helps with multitasking, planning, organizing and selective attention

• improves spatial memory

While scientists do not know why more muscle strength improves cognitive function, the association and health benefits alone should motivate all of us to improve our fitness level!

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