Strengthening of cognitive function
In life, sometimes it’s easy to lose sight of the important things. Exercise is no different and is one of those missing links that make up the backbone of our ability to function optimally.
Our brains and bodies are connected
Recent studies from the Department of Psychology at the University of North Florida* show that we can increase our working memory by up to fifty percent by performing movements and exercises such as running barefoot, carrying large and/or uncomfortable objects (farmer’s walk), walking or crawl on a balance beam and avoiding various obstacles.
What is proprioception and what role does it play in cognitive function?
Wikipedia defines proprioception as “the sense of the relative position of neighboring parts of the body and the force of effort expended in movement.” Basically it happens like this: Proprioceptive training places a high demand on our working memory due to the continuous changes in our environment and terrain. In order for our neuromuscular systems to continue to function optimally, we have to challenge our brain and body with stimuli that are unpredictable and will cause us to think and react immediately.
Like what?
This could be anything from skateboarding, bull riding, boxing, wrestling, or just walking on the sidewalk. Dynamic challenges like this will make us consciously adapt our movements to the changing environment. Martial arts, dance and gymnastics are great for proprioceptive enhancement as they provide movements that are unique and different and therefore challenge and enhance our cognitive abilities. The benefits include a reduced risk of injury, increased stability, increased speed, quickness, and agility.
Proprioceptive training and injuries
Proprioceptive training has also been shown to aid in injury rehabilitation. Rehabilitation programs address three levels of motor control: spinal reflexes, cognitive programming, and brain stem activity. These programs are designed to increase functional stability and joint dynamics.
As we age, progressive cognitive decline is inevitable. Proprioceptive training has been shown to increase proprioceptive feedback and cognitive demands in older adults. By performing challenging movements that are unfamiliar to us, we continue to recruit and write new neurological patterns. As with any modification to the routine, it is important that the exercises are performed carefully and in a controlled environment to ensure safety and avoid injury.
Tips to get started
So make sure you integrate new movements and exercises into your daily lifestyle by trying some of the methods mentioned above, as well as challenging yourself on a daily basis. For example, try putting on pants and shoes without holding onto anything, washing dishes on one leg, or practicing simple movements with your eyes closed. A general rule of thumb to remember is that if something becomes too easy or natural, it stops challenging your neuromuscular system.
The body and the brain are interconnected, so remember the basic laws of physics; when the body is in motion it remains in motion, when it is at rest it remains at rest. To rest is to rust, so keep moving!
* Fountain
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