Harvard researchers performed a recent study that actually proved sitting kills you quicker than smoking. Now this does not mean that you should start smoking, but it does mean that you should get off your behind and start exercising.
The best time to exercise is in the morning because that is when your testosterone and cortisol levels are highest. This will also reduce anxiety and give you more energy throughout the day.
The most productive way to exercise is to do activities that you love which will help motivate you to be consistent with your physical routine. For example, I love to ride my bike and roller blade, as well as playing sports like basketball, tennis and soccer. It is important to mix up your exercise routine everyday so that the brain and body get challenged and you use different muscle groups. For example, on Monday I might ride my bike, but on Tuesday will switch it up by playing basketball. They key is to find activities you like to do.
A recommendation I often tell my patients is to use their time with their kids and combine it with their daily exercise. Don’t use having children as an excuse not to work out. For example, I will do push-ups with one of my sons on top of my back or perform sit ups while holding my four year old in my arms. If you enjoy being outside, get a running stroller or a bike with a child seat attachment and take your children with you as you exercise.
The gym isn’t for everyone, so find an activity you love and stick with it. Make sure you do things that make you sweat, that make your heart beat faster and also use weight resistant activities to get the most out of your exercise routine. If you follow these instructions you will decrease your chances of getting Alzheimer’s disease in the future.
If you are interested in Dr. Kaplan’s services please contact us at 212-620-8121(NY) 201-261-2150 (NJ) or visit our website at www.kaplandc.com.
To download a free copy of Dr. Kaplan’s book visit www.17waystopreventalzheimers.com/download.