David PerlmutterPresident,, Perlmutter Health Center · Board-Certified Neurologist | Functional Medicine Pioneer | #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author | International Speaker | Host of The Empowering Neurologist Podcast

If you care about your brain, stop skipping leg day.

23 Mar 2026 · 1 min

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In this brief health segment, Dr. David Perlmutter explains that using a leg press machine to strengthen the large leg muscles triggers the release of myokines—muscle‑derived signaling proteins that support brain health. He outlines how these myokines nurture neurons and synapses, lower inflammation, and enhance insulin action, thereby protecting cognitive function. Perlmutter cites Dr. Rhonda Patrick’s advocacy for leg day, urging viewers to incorporate leg‑strength training as a simple, powerful strategy for maintaining a healthy brain.

This powerful tool has huge implications as it relates to your brain health. And who knew? It's the leg press machine. Strengthening your legs increases your body's pharmacy to create myokines. These nurture brain cells, they nurture synapses, reduce inflammation, improve how insulin does its job. So remember, if you work your legs, you're getting more of these chemicals. Your leg muscles are the largest muscles in your body. As Rhonda Patrick is so fond of saying, don't forget leg day.