Ep 404 Movement is Medicine for the Aging Brain ft. Dr Charles Hillman

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What if the key to a healthier, sharper brain wasn’t a pill or a special diet—but simply getting up and moving your body every day? 

In this episode of the Strong By Design podcast, Coach Chris Wilson sits down with Dr. Charles Hillman, a world-renowned expert in cognitive neuroscience, exercise science, and neurocognitive kinesiology. Dr. Hillman has dedicated his career to understanding how physical activity affects brain function and cognitive performance, especially in children and older adults.

Their conversation explores how movement shapes the brain across the lifespan, from childhood to old age. Dr. Hillman shares groundbreaking research—like how fit kids have larger hippocampal volumes and stronger memory skills, and how lifelong activity can help protect against age-related cognitive decline. 

He also discusses how a sedentary lifestyle can harm both physical and cognitive health, why schools need to prioritize physical education, and how parents can create movement-rich environments at home to support their kids’ brain development. Dr. Hillman’s work has even influenced U.S. public health policy through the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines, showing that staying active isn’t just good for the body—it’s essential for brain health and lifelong learning.

This is a powerful conversation for anyone who wants to stay sharp, feel energized, and keep their brain and body healthy for years to come.

Time Stamps

00:39 – Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast!
01:24 – Join Coach Chris Wilson with special guest, Dr Charles Hillman
04:34 – How Dr. Charles (Chuck) developed his fascination with the brain 
12:30 – Coach Chris shares his passion for fitness and health
14:25 – How early-life activities influence the way we age
18:49 – What is the main reason many people don’t exercise?
22:08 – Learn about the health risks of being out of shape
26:51 – Our lack of emphasis on physical activity and physical education
31:26 – How other countries prioritize physical activity and health
36:04 – How physical movement influences key areas of brain function
40:45 – Chuck talks about sports and the study of movement
49:14 – Can your body easily bounce back after years without exercise?
54:50 – Benefits of being physically active as a family
59:33 – Please share and leave ratings and reviews for the SBD podcast!

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Resources:

TEDx Talk - How lifelong movement supports your brain - Christopher Wilson

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Northeastern University College of Science

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