"Power Up Your Brain: The Brain Boosting Benefits of Isometric Contractions"




"Power Up Your Brain: The Brain Boosting Benefits of Isometric Contractions"

I'm  always on the hunt for strategies to help my clients boost their cognitive function and improve their overall brain health. One approach that has caught my attention in recent years is isometric contractions.

Isometric contractions are a type of muscle contraction in which the muscle length remains constant while the tension within the muscle increases. These contractions are commonly used in exercises such as planks, wall sits, and static holds. While isometric contractions are often thought of as a way to build strength and endurance, research has shown that they can also have positive effects on cognitive function.

One study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that performing a single bout of isometric contractions improved cognitive function in healthy young adults. The study used a test called the Stroop test, which measures attention and response inhibition. The results showed that the participants who performed isometric contractions had better performance on the Stroop test than those who did not.

Another study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences found that isometric contractions improved cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. The study used a test called the Mini-Mental State Examination, which assesses various cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and language. The results showed that the participants who performed isometric contractions had improved scores on the Mini-Mental State Examination compared to those who did not.

So, how exactly do isometric contractions improve cognitive function? While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, researchers believe that the increased blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain during exercise may play a role. Additionally, the release of certain hormones and neurotransmitters during exercise, such as endorphins and dopamine, may also contribute to the cognitive benefits.

At Neuro Beast we use isometric exercises in combination with cognitive drills to help optimize the brain function of our clients. We typically do this type of training in the beginning of the session for 1-2 rounds of 60 seconds each round. While there are a number of cognitive drills that you can use while in an isometric hold, we typically use drills that incorporate working memory and impulse control. 

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