Strength training does more than build muscle. Learn how lifting weights may support cognitive health, brain aging, and long-term quality of life.

A new study used brain scans to measure exactly that. The results show that resistance training is a uniquely beneficial tool for brain health that works through different pathways than cardio.

Lifting weights can make the brain test younger on functional MRI, and the benefits may keep compounding even long after you train.

Learn what brain age measures, why the prefrontal cortex matters for Alzheimer's and cognitive aging, the muscle-to-brain signaling system activated by strength training, and how heavy lifting compares to moderate intensity for protecting the brain after 40. Plus a quick self-check for strength-related dementia risk, especially after 40.

Enroll in Eat More Lift Heavy, the 26-week coached program where adults over 40 build the nutrition and training skills to lift heavy, build muscle, lose fat, and stay strong and sharp for decades.

Timestamps:

0:00 - Lifting weights and brain aging
0:47 - Dementia risk and strength training over 40
3:58 - Aerobic exercise and the hippocampus
6:00 - Prefrontal cortex and muscle signaling
7:48 - Recent study and brain age scans
10:21 - Brain age gap and dementia risk
11:30 - Results across both lifting intensities
13:12 - Myokines, irisin, and BDNF
16:57 - How to build skills for lifting weights
18:30 - Lifting protocol for brain health
20:45 - Entry points for new lifters
24:15 - Grip strength and dementia risk

💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - a 26-week evidence-based strength training for men and women over 40 and fat loss program to build muscle after 40, lose fat, and maintain your results (even in perimenopause and menopause)

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👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape (strength training & fat loss nutrition coach) on Instagram & thanks for making us one of the best fat loss podcasts for men & women over 40! 🙏