Neuroplasticity and Brain Networks: Stay Young with Exercise

I Get Younger Every Year - Because I Never Leave The Playground

As I stand in my pottery studio, surrounded by swirling vortexes of clay and color, I often think about how many people believe they're too old to change. "You're 85?" they'll say with a mixture of shock and pity. "What are you doing still learning new skills? What's wrong with you?"

I tell them the truth: I get younger every year because I never leave the playground.

And it's not just about pottery or movement education - it's about rewiring my brain through exercise to stay adaptable, resilient, and curious in the face of a rapidly changing world. In this post, we'll dive into the science behind neuroplasticity and how physical activity can shape our brain networks for better cognitive function.

A Lifetime of Movement Education

As a professor at UCF, I taught movement education and explored its connection to cognitive development. Later, as an award-winning potter, I learned that the same principles apply to adults: by engaging in novel experiences and pushing ourselves outside our comfort zones, we can rewire our brains for greater creativity, flexibility, and memory.

One of my favorite stories is about a student who came to me at 60, feeling stuck in her life. She was convinced she'd lost her cognitive edge with age, but I challenged her to try something new - learning pottery. Within weeks, she reported improved focus, reduced stress, and a renewed sense of purpose.

The Science Behind Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's remarkable ability to reorganize itself in response to experience. This process is essential for learning and memory formation, but it doesn't stop at childhood. Our brains remain malleable throughout life, allowing us to adapt to new situations and skills.

Recent research highlights the impact of exercise on neuroplasticity. A 2025 trend report from the Aging Well Initiative notes that physical activity programs are increasingly being used to boost cognitive growth in older adults. One study published in Frontiers found that resistance training stimulates neuroplasticity, promoting neural adaptation and improvement in functional capacity.

But what about endurance exercise? How does it affect our brains? A 2025 review on "Exercise-Induced Neuroplasticity" emphasizes the importance of cardiovascular fitness (CRF) in promoting healthy brain function. It turns out that small bursts of physical activity can have a profound impact on our cognitive abilities - especially as we age.

The Playground Doesn't Care How Old You Are

So, what can you do today to harness the power of neuroplasticity? Here are some practical steps to get started:

1. **Move with intention**: Incorporate novel movements into your daily routine - whether it's learning a new dance style or trying rock climbing.

2. **Challenge both sides of your brain**: Engage in activities that require coordination, balance, and fine motor control (like pottery or drawing).

3. **Take small bursts of physical activity**: Use short exercise sessions to stimulate your cardiovascular system and boost neuroplasticity.

4. **Seek out new experiences**: Try a new sport, attend workshops, or take classes outside your comfort zone.

Remember: the playground doesn't care how old you are. It's time to join me on this lifelong journey of exploration and growth - never leave the playground!

Join the Playground Today

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