Exercise and weight training will keep us fit and strong, but what how does it help an aging brain?
A new study suggests it improves the sharpness of the brain. 155 women aged 65 to 75 were selected into either a 'resistance training' group or a 'balance and tone' group. The weight trainers trained for either one or two days each week for 12 months and the balance and tone group for two days each week. At the end of 12 months a standard cognitive test (the Stroop test) was used to assess brain function and performance.
Both resistance-trained groups (1 and 2 days) improved their performance by 10-12 percent compared to the balance and tone group. The authors concluded that "twelve months of once-weekly or twice-weekly resistance training benefited the executive cognitive function of selective attention and conflict resolution among senior women."
Resistance Training and Executive Functions. A 12-Month Randomized Controlled Trial. Teresa Liu-Ambrose, et al. Arch Intern Med. 010;170(2):170-178.
Although never a weight trainer of any description, I do consider myself one to be concerned about condition. The article I read came to the conclusion that the person who is involved with weight training benefits more intellectually than the person concerned with tone. I agree with this statement because it is much more than brawn that lifts weight. There is a technique that requires each muscle to bear responsibility in lifting the weight.