Strength training offers numerous benefits as we age, including:
Preserving Muscle Mass: As we get older, we naturally lose muscle mass and strength. Strength training helps counteract this by stimulating muscle growth and retention.
Bone Health: Strength training can help maintain or even increase bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Improved Metabolism: Building muscle through strength training can increase metabolic rate, making it easier to manage weight and prevent age-related weight gain.
Enhanced Joint Health: Strengthening muscles around joints can improve joint stability and reduce the risk of injury or arthritis.
Better Balance and Coordination: Strength training exercises often incorporate balance and coordination, which are crucial for preventing falls and maintaining mobility as we age.
Increased Functional Independence: Being stronger allows older adults to perform daily activities more easily, maintaining independence and quality of life.
Mental Health Benefits: Strength training has been linked to improved cognitive function, mood, and overall well-being in older adults.
Chronic Disease Management: Strength training can help manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis by improving physical function and overall health.
Overall, incorporating strength training into an aging individual's routine can lead to a healthier, more active, and independent lifestyle.
If you are interested in finding out more and want to take your strength program to new heights contact us a physio@bodyfit.life
Ryan our Exercise Physiologist and experienced strength and conditioning coach utilises the Starting Strength model of training as expounded by Mark Rippetoe in his seminal book “Starting Strength: Basic Barbell Training“.
The underlying principle for all physical development programs and philosophies is strength. A better quality of life, particularly as people age, is obtainable by the development of improved strength, this affects both physical and emotional well being. Including increased ability to respond to physical challenges from injury and sickness, also emotional events that can lead to physical degradation.
Body Fit Physiotherapy