Understanding the Connection Between Strength Training and Brain Health
As we age, the importance of maintaining both muscle and brain health becomes increasingly evident. It’s a familiar adage: ‘use it or lose it.’ This principle applies not just to muscle strength but also to cognitive vitality.
David Merrill, a seasoned psychiatrist and director at the Pacific Brain Health Centre in California, states that ‘our brains are like any other part of our body. “Use it or lose it” is not just a hypothesis; it’s a basic biological fact.’
The Muscle-Brain Connection
While we may not directly observe improvements in our brain’s strength, advancements in muscle condition can serve as indicators of our cognitive health. Recent studies have been exploring this intriguing link.
One notable study from Monash University, Australia, suggests a significant correlation between thigh muscle volume during midlife and overall brain volume. Study author Alicia Lu emphasized that thigh muscle mass is a reliable reflection of total body muscle mass, making it a critical measure in understanding physical and cognitive health.
Conclusion
Engaging in regular strength training not only helps preserve muscle mass but may also offer protective benefits for our brain as we advance in age. Therefore, incorporating strength training into our daily routines might be one of the best strategies for safeguarding our cognitive health.
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