When the Brain Lacks Fuel, Exercise Still Protects Memory

Summary: New research shows that exercise may protect brain function even when the body can’t produce ketones, a vital energy source for cognition. When liver function is impaired and ketone levels drop, memory and learning typically suffer—but physical activity can still counteract those effects. This suggests exercise triggers alternative brain-supporting mechanisms beyond just energy supply….

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A 10-Minute Barre Workout You Can Do at Home

Over the last two decades, barre workouts have exploded from a niche boutique offering to a fixture of the fitness scene — taught at hundreds of specialized studios, gyms and Y.M.C.A.s — as word has spread about their power to build strength, balance and flexibility using mostly your own body weight. Barre workouts were first…

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For the Heart, Small Exertions Are Better Than None

Stopping to smell the roses is one thing. But dawdling through life could come with added health risks, according to new research. Researchers analyzed the daily movements of more than 24,000 adults who did not formally exercise over the course of a week, finding those who made small exertions—vacuuming with speed or taking the…

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Should You Always Be Sore After a Workout?

Q: If I’m not sore after I exercise, did it even count? There’s a pervasive belief among fitness enthusiasts that if you aren’t sore after a workout, you’re not getting into shape or working your muscles hard enough to build strength. But soreness is not equivalent to progress, fitness experts say. And constant soreness is…

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Heart rate variability is now a common smart watch fitness stat. What does it mean for your exercise load?

As the popularity of smartwatches, also called wearables, increases, so too does the amount of data users can access about their health. Statistics like resting heart rate, V02 max (maximal oxygen consumption) and heart rate variability (HRV) provide valuable insight into your fitness levels. But not all measurements are created equal. While HRV has long…

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Your heart changes in size and shape with exercise – this can lead to heart problems for some athletes and gym rats

Exercise has long been recognized by clinicians, scientists and public health officials as an important way to maintain health throughout a person’s lifespan. It improves overall fitness, helps build strong muscles and bones, reduces the risk of chronic disease, improves mood and slows physical decline. Exercise can also significantly reduce the risk of developing conditions…

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