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The Neurochemical Power of Exercise: Why BDNF Is the Brain’s “Growth Fertilizer”(A Quick Evidence-Based Breakdown

In the last few years, research into exercise and brain health has pushed one molecule to center stage: Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). Often described as “fertilizer for the brain,” BDNF helps neurons grow, repair, and form stronger connections. Higher BDNF levels are linked to improved learning, memory, mood, and long-term cognitive resilience. And the most effective way to boost it? Exercise. Recent studies—including systematic reviews published in 2023–2025—show

Dr. Ashli E. Linkhorn

Jan 92 min read

Want to Jump Higher? Start With These Three Pillars

Athletes constantly ask how to increase their vertical jump—yet most skip the fundamentals that actually move the needle. Improving your vertical isn’t about doing random plyometrics or chasing fancy drills. It’s about building a system around three key pillars: 1.Get Stronger Strength is the foundation of explosive movement. If you want to jump higher, you need stronger legs, hips, and glutes. Cornerstone strength lifts: * Deadlifts * Hip thrusts * Squats * Lunges 2.Get More

Dr. Ashli E. Linkhorn

Dec 26, 20251 min read

Creatine and Teen Athletes: What the Latest Research Really Says

If you’ve spent any time around high-school sports, you’ve probably heard athletes talk about creatine. It’s one of the most researched supplements in the world—and one that sometimes raises eyebrows when teenagers use it. Recent studies, including research published in Nutrients and Frontiers in Nutrition between 2018 and 2025, show that creatine monohydrate can be safe and effective when used correctly in adolescent athletes. In fact, short-term studies on high-school baske

Dr. Ashli E. Linkhorn

Nov 28, 20252 min read

Preventable High School Sports Injuries: Screening for Stronger, Safer Athlete

Preventable injuries like ankle sprains and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears continue to derail high school athletes both academically and athletically. Recent evidence shows that ankle sprains alone can sideline young athletes for several weeks. One systematic review reported an average of 21–30 days of missed practice or competition following initial injury (Attenborough et al., 2022). Likewise, adolescent athletes recovering from ACL reconstruction often face prolong

Dr. Ashli E. Linkhorn

Oct 24, 20252 min read