Rule 4Get Aerobic and Anaerobic Exercise

Aerobic exercise -- jogging, swimming, cycling -- improves circulation, increases lung capacity and red blood cells, and strengthens the heart. Bursts of anaerobic exercise -- weight-lifting, sprinting -- build and maintain skeletal muscle and bones. Your workout also helps keep your brain at the top of its game. During exercise, the brain secretes more of a protein called BDNF -- brain derived neurotrophic factor. BDNF protects existing neurons and axons, and encourages the growth of new nerve cells. Find a combination of aerobic and anaerobic activities that you love, and continue to try new sports and workouts, too.