September 18, 2025

What's Inside:

Article: Physical Activity Fuels Cognitive Longevity

Client Spotlight: Pam M.

Recipe: Mediterranean Chickpea Power Bowl

 

This week's article contributor:

Doug Crace

Brain Health Coach

 

At Activate Brain and Body Fitness, Physical Activity Fuels Cognitive Longevity

At Activate Brain and Body Fitness, we believe that a strong body builds a sharp mind. Physical activity is more than just a path to physical health—it’s a cornerstone of cognitive longevity. Emerging research continues to highlight the profound connection between exercise and brain health, showing that regular movement can enhance memory, improve focus, and even delay age-related cognitive decline. At our fitness centers, we’re dedicated to harnessing this powerful link to help our members thrive mentally and physically for years to come.

The science is clear: physical activity boosts brain function in remarkable ways. Aerobic exercises, like those offered in our group fitness classes, increase blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that support neural health. This process stimulates the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein often called “fertilizer for the brain.” BDNF promotes the growth of new neurons and strengthens connections between them, enhancing learning and memory. Studies show that adults who engage in regular aerobic exercise experience improved executive functions—skills like problem-solving, planning, and attention.

Strength training, another pillar of our programs at Activate, also plays a critical role. Resistance exercises improve cognitive flexibility and processing speed, particularly in older adults. By challenging the body, we challenge the brain, fostering resilience against conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Our Coaches design workouts that combine strength, balance, and coordination, which not only build muscle but also sharpen mental acuity by engaging multiple brain regions simultaneously.

Beyond biology, physical activity uplifts mood and reduces stress, both of which are vital for cognitive health. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, combating anxiety and depression, which can cloud thinking. At Activate, our community-focused classes, from mobility to high-intensity interval training, create a supportive environment that enhances mental well-being. Social interaction during workouts further stimulates the brain, as it requires communication, teamwork, and emotional engagement.

At Activate Brain and Body Fitness, we tailor programs to all ages and fitness levels, ensuring everyone can reap the cognitive rewards of movement. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a strength session, or a dance class, every step you take with us fuels your brain’s longevity. Join us today to activate your body and empower your mind for a vibrant, sharp future.

Client Spotlight

 

Upcoming Events

Activate Brain & Body Fitness Research Highlights & More

📅 Tuesday, September 23rd-Indianapolis

6:15-7:30 PM

📅 Thursday, September 25th-Cincinnati

6:15-7:30 PM

📍 Activate Brain & Body

Cost: FREE

During this event, we will present what we’ve learned about how this approach can enhance cognitive flexibility, executive function, and overall brain health, building on studies exploring memory, executive function, and reaction speed through innovative assessment tools.

Cooking With Earth Foods For A Cause

📅 Wednesday, October 15th-Cincinnati

6-7:30 PM

📍 Activate Brain & Body

Cost: $80 Per Person

(Half of all proceeds will benefit the Activate Brain Health Foundation)

During this event, Trinidad will guide us through the art of cooking with earth-based, healing foods that fuel both body and brain. You will also leave with food to take home.

Train Your Trainer

📅 Wednesday, October 22nd-Cincinnati

1-2 PM

📍 Activate Brain & Body

Cost: $25 Per 10-minute time Slot

(All proceeds will benefit the Activate Brain Health Foundation)

During this event, you will have an opportunity to get back at your trainers. While helping advance brain health research and education.

Recipe of the Week

Mediterranean Chickpea Power Bowl

Mediterranean Chickpea Power Bowl

Packed with fiber, omega-3s, antioxidants, and slow-digesting carbs.

Ingredients (2 servings):

  • 1 can chickpeas (rinsed & drained)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • ½ tsp turmeric

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • Salt + pepper to taste

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)

  • 1 cup baby spinach or arugula

  • 1 small cucumber, diced

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • ¼ red onion, thinly sliced

  • 2 tbsp crumbled feta

  • 2 tbsp walnuts (chopped)

  • 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds

  • 1 tbsp tahini

  • Juice of 1 lemon

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss chickpeas with olive oil, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roast 20–25 minutes until crispy.

  2. Assemble bowls: base of quinoa + greens. Add cucumber, tomatoes, onion, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and feta.

  3. Top with roasted chickpeas.

  4. Mix tahini + lemon juice + a splash of water for dressing. Drizzle on top.

Why it’s brain-healthy:

  • Olive oil, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds = omega-3s + healthy fats for memory and mood.

  • Chickpeas and quinoa = steady glucose release for focus.

  • Turmeric = anti-inflammatory, protects neurons.

  • Leafy greens + veggies = antioxidants that slow cognitive decline

“Exercise is labor for the body; reading is labor for the mind; both are necessary for life.”

– Thomas Jefferson

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