Aging healthily is a goal for all of us, but we often focus only on physical health, forgetting the importance of keeping the brain active and functional. The good news? Regular exercise can be a powerful tool for maintaining cognitive health, and science has shown how cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) plays a key role in this process.
What is Cardiorespiratory Fitness (CRF)?
ACR refers to the ability of the heart and lungs to deliver oxygen to the muscles during physical activity. This ability, which can be improved with aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, running and cardiovascular training, is closely linked to brain health, especially in older people.
The Role of CRF in Cognitive Health Recent studies have revealed that higher levels of CRF are associated with better performance in several cognitive functions, including: Episodic memory: Remembering past events and experiences.
Processing speed: We perform cognitive tasks quickly.
Executive function and attention control: Planning, organizing and focusing.
Even in groups considered at risk of cognitive decline, such as carriers of the APOE4 gene (associated with Alzheimer's disease), cardiorespiratory fitness showed significant benefits.
Exercise and the Brain: How Does CRF Make a Difference?
The benefits of ACR go beyond the physical body. Studies show that regular exercise can: Increase cerebral blood flow.
Reduce oxidative stress.
Promote the growth of new brain connections (synaptogenesis).
Improves mood and sleep quality, essential factors for mental health.
These positive effects make physical exercise an essential strategy for keeping the brain young and functional over the years.
The Importance of Exercise in Everyday Life Incorporating physical exercise into our routine may seem like a challenge, but it is easier than you might think. At Tag&Get, we believe anyone can start their physical and mental health journey from the comfort of their own home. We offer home fitness accessories so you can set up a small workout space and achieve your goals in a practical and efficient way.
Whether using Pilates rings, jump ropes or resistance bands, you can perform aerobic and strength exercises that improve cardiorespiratory fitness without having to leave your home.
Tips for Improving CRF at Home Interval training: Try alternating periods of high intensity with periods of active rest.
Jumping rope: An excellent cardiovascular exercise that burns calories and improves coordination.
Resistance band exercises: Work multiple muscle groups while increasing your heart rate.
Physical and Mental Fitness Go Hand in Hand Taking care of your physical health is not just about being in shape; It's about living better and longer, with a brain that keeps up with our aspirations. Studies make it clear that investing in ACR is also investing in cognitive health.
At Tag&Get, we support this journey by offering tools to make exercise accessible, motivating and effective. Get started today and discover how movement can transform not only your body, but your mind too!
Tag&Get – Inspiration for an active and healthy lifestyle.
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You can access the original study at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39658276/