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CRISIS ATHLETE™

Learn more about the 'why' behind

EXERCISE

Why are we talking about exercise?

We all know exercise is good for us, the problem is finding time (and energy) for it. But the way we worked yesterday is not the way we must work today. This is the long-haul. Stepping away from your computer, or “adding more” to your plate may seem impossible, but you have to. If you “go down” who is there to catch you? Or make sure those things you are working so hard to achieve continue?

Even a little bit of exercise can help! Exercise releases chemicals that protect your brain and improve your focus.

Start with Small Changes

We know, we know... you’ve heard it all before, and it’s easier said than done. Start by making small changes today.

Some positions require you to be on your feet all day, moving around. The good news: that qualifies! It may not be “ideal” or optimal exercise, but this is not the time for “ideal”. We can settle for “okay enough”. Same thing if you’re seated primarily at a desk – a little movement can go a long way.

Exercise increases neuroprotective chemicals and stimulates the growth of new brain cells. Exercise has a protective effect on your brain. In times of stress, brain cells and neurons need all the extra protection they can get.

Exercise increases oxygen in your brain. This increases cognitive performance in the short-term and long-term protects against effects of dementia.

Feeling blue or anxious? Exercise increases the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine which can improve mood and ability to process information.

What does neuroscience say about exercise?

TIPS AND ACTIVITIES

How do I increase my exercise?

You don’t have to be an expert to BEGIN to reap the benefits.

START today with simple, quick, effective tactics.

Individual

Start Small

While spending an hour exercising each day may sound ideal, how many of us would actually stick to it or even find the time? The more challenging the goal, the less likely you’ll be to follow through.

Start with small goals you can achieve (and choose activities you actually enjoy!). Once you meet them and build momentum, you can add more challenging goals to your routine.

Individual, Team

Green Exercise

Being in front of a screen all day can be exhausting. Green exercise, that is, any physical activity that takes place outside, has the ability to enhance focus, decrease stress, and very quickly increase self-control.

The more time you spend doing green exercise, the greater the benefits. However, research finds that even brief periods outside can be beneficial.

Taking a 5-minute walk outside, or even a walking meeting with your team outside, while looking at the trees or spring flowers, can help.

Other ideas: gardening, flying kites, walking your dog.

Individual

Treat Yourself

While improved mood and overall health is a reward in itself, those things may not be experienced right away.

Reward yourself with small things you enjoy immediately following your exercise to improve the likelihood that you will follow through with it. For example, your favorite coffee, fresh flowers, or a new book.

Start Now

Want to learn more?

Contact us for more information on how we can leverage advances in neuroscience to understand human behavior, cultivate growth, and get results for you and your organization.

UNDERSTAND YOUR BRAIN.
UP YOUR GAME.