BDNF stands for "Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor", and that really makes the acronym useful because saying that is a workout in itself. According to the United States Archive of Medicine, BDNF is a substance released by the brain that is closely related to learning and memory. This is known because it is released from the hippocampus, the part of the brain that handles memorization and learning.

In essence, this means that working out not only enhances the body but the mind as well!

There has been plenty of research done on this substance and its effects on the mind. In this article, we'll be talking about how to maximize the production of BDNF as well as where to apply all that BDNF you now have in daily life.

1. Be consistent

Think of working out as studying.  There is no better way to study than studying consistently. When you only review once or twice, then your mind tends to forget the facts immediately. The same goes for exercise. Taking a week on, then a week off, will leave your routine sporadic, and actually stunts the growth of BDNF. To maximize the effects of BDNF, try to work out more consistently.

2. Enjoy training

Associating the act of exercise with positive thoughts can help the production of BDNF. The mind likes its memories, and the memory of a good workout also helps you be excited about the next one.

3. Train everyday

Training every day is the secret to consistency. Make sure to vary up your routine each day to ensure that you don't get bored and fall off your workout routine.

4. Train intensely

You don't have to train for long, but when you do, be intense. Of course, it's a case to case basis, but the most production of BDNF is usually from high-intensity training as opposed to more long-form exercises like marathons.

5. Get your Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a required vitamin for the production of BDNF. There are many ways to go about this, but the best by far is simply training in the morning. Find a nice spot at home under the sunlight with open windows. What's important is that you absorb all that sunlight while you're working out.

Needless to say, remember to pace yourself. Please consult a physician before attempting any sort of intense workout!

Conclusion

There has been an unfortunate stigma for heavy exercise as a form of "compensation" to those who lack intelligence. All of us have seen at one point or another big, strong men or women are called dumb jocks or that all nerds are wimpy and weak. The existence of BDNF disproves that very notion. Braininess and brawn are not mutually exclusive traits.

Those who know how to utilize BDNF know that the best path for a healthy you is by combining both brains and brawn. BDNF ensures that if we play our cards right, we can maintain our minds about as well as we maintain our muscles. Strength is not only about muscles, and intelligence is not only about how many books you can read!