With Coach Alexa, offering Online Running Coaching for We Run clients across the world
Hey team, Coach Alexa here! I coach runners in Reading, South Oxfordshire, and online.
Today, I want to talk about a slightly different aspect of physical activity – how working on new, novel, and increasingly complex movement patterns can improve overall health and well-being, particularly brain health.
The Importance of Balance
I’ve mentioned balance before in the context of running – after all, running is just standing on one leg at speed! Practicing balance in simple ways, like standing on one leg while brushing your teeth, waiting in a queue, or standing by the kettle, can help train the balance systems in the brain and strengthen the tiny sensors in our muscles and tendons.
Learning New Movements to Strengthen the Brain
Research shows that learning complex movement patterns helps create new neural pathways in the brain. This could involve picking up a new sport that requires coordination, such as a racket sport, or engaging in activities like yoga, tai chi, or Pilates, which introduce unfamiliar movement patterns. Even practicing skills like juggling or something as simple as playing catch – throwing a ball against a wall and reacting to its unpredictable return – can serve as effective ‘brain training’.
Combining Mental and Physical Challenges for Maximum Benefit
One fascinating finding is that combining a mental challenge with physical activity has more than double the benefits of doing each separately. For example, try counting backwards from 100 in jumps of seven (100, 93, 86, 79…) while doing squats. It requires focus, engages the brain, and enhances the overall impact of the workout.
Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone for Brain Health
Our brains love routines, but to keep them sharp, we need to challenge them. Learning new skills – both mentally and physically – helps maintain long-term brain function and overall well-being.
Paula Radcliffe famously used counting as a mental focus tool while racing, repeatedly counting to 100 to keep her mind engaged and prevent negative thoughts from creeping in. You can try similar mental exercises during runs, strength training, or any other workout to challenge both body and mind.
Give it a go and see how your brain and body respond. Happy training! 🚀
