At an advanced pace

Hi~ In the following sentences, what could be the best interpretations of "at an advanced pace" and "The discipline"? As for "at an advanced pace", is it same as "at a fast speed"?

The word "discipline" seems to be one of the hardest words to guess for me...

Any idea would be a big help. Thank you~

The human brain is designed to reward learning, not because of academic pursuits, but rather to survive. The brain rewards learning because it continues to expand one’s cognitive reserve and protect the brain
throughout one’s life. The healthy longevity of the brain requires consistent learning at an advanced pace. Each time you learn the brain changes structurally and functionally for the better. A healthy dopamine response
system is required not only for exceptional achievements, but also to engage in habits associated with success. The discipline required to study, practice a sport, advance a skill, and even go to work daily would not
occur without dopamine reinforcement. A healthy brain is designed to maintain and fine-tune by consistently learning new things on a daily basis. Therefore, students who have lost the motivation to learn are more
likely to fail not only in school, but also in life. Their health depends on the wonderful transformation that is induced by daily learning.