HEALTH

How Can We Benefit From “Strength Training” & Build “Healthier Bodies” As We Age?

November 18, 2023

“As we age, there are inevitable functional and biological limitations that can cap exercise endurance, strength training, and fitness,”. Some of these limitations can be slowed down through an active lifestyle that includes strength training.

However, it isn’t easy to study these limits in normal day-to-day life. Studies such as the BLSA are special because scientists can test these limits in the clinic. “For example, to test strength and endurance, study participants may be asked to walk or run on a treadmill, or climb stairs, for as long as they can comfortably continue. There are also genetic and environmental components to how people respond to physical challenges and exercise.”

By studying people’s limits and variability, researchers aim to provide older adults with evidence-based advice on how regularly moving and challenging their muscles may help increase their years of optimal health.

Strength training, also known as resistance training, is a type of physical activity that involves using resistance to make your muscles work harder. This can be done with weights, machines, resistance bands, or even your own body weight. “Strength training is important for people of all ages, but it is especially beneficial for older adults”. This is because sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass and strength that occurs with age, can lead to a number of problems, including:

Increased risk of falls and fractures
Decreased balance and coordination
Reduced independence in activities of daily living (ADLs)
Increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes

Strength training can help to prevent or delay sarcopenia by stimulating muscle growth and strengthening bones. It can also improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, which can help to reduce the risk of falls. In addition, strength training can help to improve ADLs, such as getting in and out of chairs, climbing stairs, and carrying groceries.

Check Out Our List Of The Best Supplements For Building Muscle, Shredding Muscle, Recovery, And Great Health, and Wellness Products! Purchase IFBNewsfeed.Org‘s Apparels Here: IFBNewsfeed.Org

Here are some of the specific benefits of strength training for older adults:

Increases muscle mass and strength: Strength training helps to stimulate muscle growth, which can help to improve muscle function and strength. This can make it easier to perform everyday tasks and reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
Improves bone density: Strength training helps to put stress on bones, which can help to increase bone density. This can help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that can lead to weak and fragile bones.
Enhances balance and coordination: Strength training helps to improve balance and coordination, which can help to reduce the risk of falls. Falls are a major risk factor for serious injuries in older adults.
Boosts metabolism: Strength training helps to increase muscle mass, which can help to boost metabolism. This can help to control weight and reduce the risk of obesity.
Improves overall health: Strength training can help to improve overall health by reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

If you are an older adult, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting a strength training program. Your doctor can help you to create a safe and effective program that is tailored to your individual needs and fitness level.

Here are some tips for starting a strength training program:

Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
Focus on compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups at once.
Use a variety of exercises to work all of your major muscle groups.
Listen to your body and stop if you feel pain.
Work with a certified personal trainer if you are new to strength training.

In addition to these benefits, strength training can also improve independence and quality of life for older adults. By maintaining strength and balance, older adults can continue to perform daily activities with greater ease, reducing reliance on others for assistance.

If you’re an older adult considering starting a strength training program, it’s essential to consult with your doctor to ensure it’s safe for you. They can help you determine an appropriate exercise plan based on your individual needs and fitness level.

Wrapping Up

Strength training is a safe and effective way to improve your health and fitness at any age. If you are an older adult, talk to your doctor about starting a strength training program today. You may be surprised at how much it can improve your quality of life.