Our guest for this episode is Martin Pazzani. Our conversation explores the breakthroughs in exercise technology that help older adults maintain brain health. We discuss the ways that exercise stimulates new neural pathways. This is through the creation of a protein called BDNF. Can exercise protect us from cognitive decline? We also touch on the science of loading the physical and cognitive systems at the same time. From here, our guest describes this concept of “dual task exercises” and how it is influencing new exercise programs. And, we learn more about why hiking and mountain climbing are ideal forms of exercise for seniors.
Highlights of this conversation:
- What is brain derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) and how is it associated with nerve growth in the brain?
- Why has the fitness industry put less emphasis on fitness for seniors?
- What does the research say about dual tasking?
- Most importantly, can adding a second mental exercise increase the benefits of routine physical activity?
- Finally, we ask if these strategies can delay mental decline, i.e., dementia.
Join us for this exciting and inspirational conversation about activating our brain and our body for years ahead.
Mini Bio
Martin Pazzani is the author of Secrets of Aging Well: Get Outside.” From his decades in the fitness industry, he is the founder of a new brain fitness company, Act!vate Brain & Body. Martin is a TED Speaker, and a mountaineer who has hiked and climbed 100,000,000 uphill steps across 7 continents, over 50 years.
His background is in in mega-company marketing and strategy, including Bally Fitness. He has held positions at Madison Avenue advertising agencies, was a CEO in the music business, and has many years in the fitness business. He’s now a serial entrepreneur focused on longevity, brain health, and anti-aging techniques. It’s fair to say that Martin is on a mission to reinvent the fitness business as upstream preventive health care. In so doing, he believes we can radically change the trajectory of aging.
Items Mentioned for Our Listeners
Website for Act!vate Brain and Body
Book reference, Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain by John Raity
Podcasting Award
Feedspot RSS News Reader has selected the Living to 100 Podcast as among the Top 20 Aging Podcasts You Must Follow in 2021. Thanks to all of our listeners for tuning in, and to our guests for the great conversations.