Arnold Schwarzenegger is constantly looking for a way to combat the aging process. In a recent Arnold’s Pump Club newsletter, Schwarzenegger reveals how working out could help prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Make no mistake, when it comes to bodybuilding, fitness, and nutrition, Arnold Schwarzenegger boasts decades of experience. Having competed at the highest level in bodybuilding, ‘The Austrian Oak’ trailblazed en route to securing seven Mr. Olympia titles.
From acting to governing the state of California, there are few mountains Schwarzenegger hasn’t climbed. Following the historic conclusion of the 2024 Arnold Classic, which saw Hadi Choopan emerge victorious, Schwarzenegger continues to give back to fitness and bodybuilding enthusiasts with engaging yet easy-to-understand concepts on wellness.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Discusses Strength Training’s Effect On Keeping The Mind Healthy
We all want to preserve our brain health, but many such as Arnold Schwarzenegger realize that this is easier said than done. To simplify matters, he elaborated on why strength training is an essential component to preventing neurodegenerative issues, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Level Up Your Fitness: Join our 💪 strong community in Fitness Volt Newsletter. Get daily inspiration, expert-backed workouts, nutrition tips, the latest in strength sports, and the support you need to reach your goals. Subscribe for free!
“We believe that any type of movement is beneficial. But some types of exercise offer more benefits than others.”
“Research suggests that resistance training could help protect you from developing neurodegenerative diseases like dementia.”
Schwarzenegger explains what Dementia and Alzheimer’s are and how resistance training can help protect the section of the brain responsible for neurodegenerative diseases.
“Dementia and Alzheimer’s are complicated disorders, but we’re starting to learn more about their development. Studies suggest that your hippocampus — an area of your brain responsible for learning and memory — is targeted by neurodegenerative disease. Resistance training appears to protect against — or completely prevent — atrophy in that region, which could help protect against Alzheimer’s. Insulin resistance is also linked to Alzheimer’s, and resistance training helps improve insulin sensitivity.”
Schwarzenegger shared that women are particularly susceptible to dementia and Alzheimer’s. He adds that lifestyle choices also play a big factor in those who endure such ailments.
“These findings apply to everyone, but the need to pump iron might be even more pressing for women. Research suggests that physical inactivity is a greater risk factor for cognitive disorders in females. One study tracked women for 44 years and discovered that the least active participants were the most likely to develop dementia later in life. Brain scans have found fewer biomarkers of Alzheimer’s in active individuals compared to those who move less.”
“Even if you have a genetic trait that increases the chances of Alzheimer’s, twin research found that lifestyle and environmental factors make up a significant percentage of what determines getting diagnosed. In other words, your genes have a big say, but training, a good diet, and other healthy habits can influence or change your destiny for the better.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger has made it clear that working out doesn’t just help you look good, it helps your mind and body function to its full potential. Previously, he revealed that HIIT(High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts can help naturally increase testosterone. Not only that, simply moving the body and staying active can also reduce the risk of heart attack.
At the end of the day, movement is your friend. Arnold Schwarzenegger continues to share scientific facts to motivate his followers to get going and get healthy. With his years of knowledge in the fitness industry, he compiles insurmountable bits of information into simple newsletters to inspire and guide people into a healthier more fulfilling lifestyle.
RELATED: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Timeless Bodybuilding Advice For Building Muscle and Strength