Say hello to slow

New studies show that working out at too fast and hard a pace can raise stress hormones

If you’re looking to keep your stress levels in check and boost brain health, it might be worth opting for a ‘cortisol-conscious’ workout. Research shows that sustained high-intensity workouts can increase the level of cortisol, a stress hormone, in the body. A new study at The University of South Australia has also found that the ‘go-long, go-hard’ approach to exercise actually blocks the brain-boosting benefits altogether. By contrast, a sustained moderate pace has been shown to improve brain ‘neuroplasticity’ – its ability to rewire or modify its neural connections. (HIIT, the technique of short, sharp jabs of high intensity seems good for the brain also). So if you’re wondering how your daily walk, swim or bike workout fits into all this, rejoice! You’ve joined the Low-Intensity Steady State (LISS) movement: that is, working out at an exertion level of 50-65 per cent of maximum heart rate over a prolonged period. Science says those who do a LISS workout enjoy it more, and are also be more likely to keep up the exercise habit long-term. Bye-bye burpees!