For the ever expanding population of adults in their 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, there is a growing awareness about the need for some kind of physical activity in their daily lives.
However, not all physical activity is the same. In my opinion, there is TOO MUCH emphasis by the fitness and medical professions on aerobic activities such as walking or cycling. While this is infinitely better than doing nothing at all, it does not prevent the main problem that we all encounter as we age: loss of strength and muscle mass.
This loss of muscle mass that comes with aging creates the following problems:
- Loss of strength and difficulty/inability to perform tasks such as standing up, going up stairs, lifting heavy objects off the ground or overhead, and walking long distances
- Decreased metabolic rate which makes losing body fat difficult if not impossible
- Increased risk of joint injury and chronic inflammation due to weakening of connective tissue around the joints
- Lack of balance
These problems, as well as others can be prevented and remedied with an effective strength & conditioning program. Benefits include:
- Increase leg and hip strength making tasks such as standing up and going up stairs much easier
- Increase upperbody strength
- Increased metabolic rate, making it easier to keep levels of body fat down
- Increased joint mobility and flexibility
- Improved balance and posture
- Reduced risk for knee, hip, back, and shoulder ailments
- Increased Bone Density (especially important for women)
