Rewiring your tolerance for tough workouts

Many people struggle to exercise consistently. The reasons are often mental, not physical. The brain can sometimes perceive strenuous activities as a threat to be avoided.

Neuroscientist Marcelo Bigliassi is studying how small doses of stress can recalibrate the brain to become more resilient to future challenges — making it easier to stick to a regular workout routine.

His research blends neuroscience, psychophysiology (the brainbody relationship) and data science. Using tools — like electroencephalography (EEG), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), electromyography (EMG) and heart rate variability — he uncovers how people respond to physical stressors like intense exercise or cold exposure.

A lifelong fitness enthusiast who has experienced the benefits of weightlifting and jiu jitsu, Bigliassi is fascinated at what the data shows: Even those who are minimally active can learn to handle the discomforts of exercise. His recent studies show brief exposure to physical stress helps form new ‘reference points’ of tolerance. This stress calibration makes future workouts feel more manageable, even enjoyable.

Bigliassi is now turning the insights gleaned from his research into real-world tools. He’s using AI to build personalized systems and apps that factor in age, fitness level, mood, sleep and more to deliver tailored exercise recommendations.