(Posted by Deanna…Group Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer and Instructor trainer)
Last year around this time, I blogged about how research had shown that including at least 4 different cardio modalities (e.g. treadmill, bike, rower and stepper) for at least 15 mins each per week, can help in the prevention of dementia due to the brain being challenged in all of the different movement patterns, as well as the increase in blood flow to the brain. Now it seems we can take this even 1 step further. That is, if we include some kind of mental challenge during your cardio work, the benefits are even greater! For example, try a group fitness class in which there is some choreography. You will have an increase in blood flow to the brain, a challenge of different movement patterns of the joints, AND the added challenge of trying to figure out those steps. So, there you go-in case you needed it, there is yet ANOTHER great reason to exercise!!
I also find group fitness classes a great stress reliever! It is hard to think of those worries and cares when you are concentrating and paying attention! An added bonus for me is that it makes me feel happy – could it be the music and exercise?
Sheri Selway