Cross-crawl walking can have many positive effects on both the body and mind. In this article we will explore the science behind some of the unique benefits that this form of exercise has to offer.
The focus of this article will be on cross-crawl and its potential for neurological enhancement and also its ability to increase fat utilization for significant weight loss.
Also note that when paired with fasting cross-crawl can have optimal synergistic effects.
Understanding Cross-Crawl: Cross-crawl is a simple yet powerful exercise technique that involves moving the opposite arm and leg forward together.
For example, as we step forward with our right foot, our left arm swings forward simultaneously and vice versa.
This coordinated movement pattern stimulates the transfer of information and connection between the left and right hemispheres of the brain, leading to improved neural communication.
Some of the benefits of cross-crawl include improved metabolism, neuroplasticity, coordination, and overall cognitive function.
Here are some of the neurological and physiological effects of cross-crawl explained.
Hemispheric Integration: Cross-crawl, has been found to improve hemispheric integration by enhancing the connectivity and communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain.
Hemispheric integration refers to the coordination and harmonious functioning of both hemispheres, leading to improved cognitive function.
During cross-crawl the alternating movement patterns of the left arm and right leg followed by the right and left leg, stimulate multiple neural pathways in the brain.
This coordinated movement activates the corpus callosum, a bundle of nerve fibers that connects the two hemispheres, facilitating the transfer of information between them.
The increased interaction between the hemispheres during cross-crawl has been associated with improvements in cognitive abilities such as problem-solving, decision-making, and creativity.
Improved Coordination: Cross-crawl has been found to significantly improve coordination through various physiological mechanisms.
One key mechanism is its impact on neural pathways and connections within the brain.
Cross-crawl involves the coordination movements between the left and right sides of the body, which requires synchronization and communication between different areas of the brain.
This coordinated movement stimulates the release of neurochemicals such as dopamine, which play a crucial role in motor control and coordination.
The repetitive and rhythmic nature of cross-lateral walking helps strengthen and reinforce these neural pathways, leading to improved coordination over time.
Additionally, cross-crawl engages multiple muscle groups on both sides of the body, which promotes the development of balanced movement patterns and proprioception.
Proprioception is the bodies ability to sense and perceive its position and movements, and it is essential for coordination.
By regularly practicing cross-crawl, individuals can enhance their proprioceptive abilities, allowing for more accurate and controlled movements.
Furthermore, the coordination required for cross-lateral walking also enhances the communication between different parts of the body, such as joints, muscles, and the central nervous system.
This improved communication facilitates efficient movement execution and coordination.
Enhanced Neuroplasticity: Cross-crawl promotes neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain's ability to reorganize and rewire itself in response to new experiences and learning.
This phenomenon occurs through the various cellular and molecular processes within the brain.
During cross-crawl, the coordination of opposite arm and leg movements stimulates the activation of neurons, particularly in the motor cortex and basal ganglia, which control movement.
This consistent activation leads to an increase in the production and release of neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which play a crucial role in promoting the growth and survival of neurons.
BDNF also enhances synaptic plasticity, the ability of neurons to form new connections and modify existing ones. This synaptic plasticity is crucial for efficient communication between neurons, allowing for faster and more precise signaling.
Additionally, cross-crawl requires the integration of sensory information, such as proprioception and balance, which activates and strengthens neural pathways involved in sensory processing.
This sensory integration promotes the formation of new connections between different brain regions, leading to improved sensorimotor coordination and plasticity.
Prolonged Increase of Fat Utilization: Cross-crawl is characterized as a low intensity exercise due to its relatively low heart rate and oxygen consumption demands.
During cross-crawl, the body relies primarily on the aerobic energy system which utilizes fat as its primary energy source.
The use of fat as a fuel is particularly advantageous during low intensity exercises because fatty acids can be metabolized at a steady rate over a prolonged period of time, allowing for extended fat utilization.
In contrast, high intensity exercise, such as sprinting for example, rely primarily on the anaerobic energy system, which primarily uses carbohydrates as its fuel source, and do not tap into fat stores as efficiently.
Additionally, low intensity exercise not only allows for longer fat burning workout sessions, but can also enhance the metabolization and utilization of fatty acids from adipose tissue, further supporting fat burning.
Cerebral Cortex Activation for Increased Fat Utilization: Cross-crawl through its activation of the cerebral cortex, promotes fat utilization due to the involvement of higher-order brain processes in energy regulation.
The cerebral cortex plays a crucial role in coordinating and regulating various physiological functions, including metabolism and energy expenditure.
During cross-crawl, the coordinated movement of the opposite arm and leg stimulates the cerebral cortex and initiates neural signaling pathways that that enhance fat utilization.
This activation of the cerebral cortex results in an increased release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are known to promote lipolysis, the breakdown of stored fat.
Furthermore, the activation of the cerebral cortex during cross-crawl also enhances neural connections with other brain regions involved in energy regulation, such as the hypothalamus.
The hypothalamus is responsible for detecting energy status and controlling appetite and energy expenditure.
The heightened neural activity between the cerebral cortex and the hypothalamus during cross-crawl leads to an improved energy balance, where fat stores are mobilized and utilized for energy.
Additionally, cross-lateral walking also modulates the function of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), which is involved in regulating energy expenditure and fat utilization.
Activation of the SNS during cross-crawl results in the release of norepinephrine, triggering a cascade of events that increase lipolysis and enhance fat utilization.
Incorporating cross-crawl as a major component of your exercise routine along with intermittent fasting, you can achieve optimal health for both your body and mind.
Enjoy your path to wellness!
