This fit cyclist, as visualized by TheVisualMD.com, is an impressive example of how exercise can build lean muscles and a sturdy skeleton. But did you know that exercise can also protect and build up his brain? 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. The factor plays a role in memory and learning as well as metabolism. Another indicator of BDNF's power: Patients with Alzheimer's disease, major depression and other neurodegenerative diseases have lower levels of this protein. Your workout not only improves your strength, endurance and flexibility, it can help keep your brain at the top of its game.

The benefits of BDNF stimulation are among a huge array of benefits from regular exercise. Aerobic exercise—jogging, swimming, cycling—improves circulation, increases lung capacity and red blood cells, and strengthens the heart. Anaerobic exercise—weight-lifting, sprinting—builds and maintains skeletal muscle and bones. You need both kinds of work to strengthen your body and your mind. Working out also reduces stress and wards off depression. To gain all of these benefits from exercise, you have to make sure it is a regularly scheduled component of your life. Find a combination of aerobic and anaerobic activities that you love, and continue to try new sports and workouts, too. You will be more likely to remain active, alert and healthy through the years.

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