5 Reasons Mom and Dad Should Lift Weights

By Penni Jones

Better Living Staff Writer 

Muscle mass decreases naturally with age. Losing muscle means an increase in the percentage of fat in your body. But strength training can help you preserve and enhance your muscle mass.  Research has shown that strength training is safe and effective for women and men of all ages. People with health concerns, including heart disease or arthritis, often benefit the most from an exercise program that includes weight lifting a few times a week.

The benefits of strength training include:

Arthritis relief: A recent study by Tufts University showed the effectiveness of strength training in pain relief of osteoarthritis was just as effective, if not more effective, as medications. Similar effects were found in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Restoration of balance: When done properly and through the full range of motion, strengthening exercises increase a person’s balance and flexibility, which decrease the likelihood and severity of falls. A New Zealand study in women 80 years and older showed a 40% reduction in falls with simple strength and balance training.

Strong bones: Strength training increases bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis by stressing your bones.

 Weight management: Higher muscle mass=higher metabolic rate. So the more toned your muscles, the easier it is to control your weight.

A healthier heart: There is a lower risk for heart disease when the body is leaner. One study found that cardiac patients increased not only strength and flexibility but also aerobic capacity when they did strength training three times a week as part of their rehabilitation program.

There are many more benefits to strength training. But be sure to check with your doctor before beginning strength training.  

For more information on strength training and how it might benefit you, please contact Better Living at (734) 747-0123.

 
http://www.mayoclinic.org/strength-training/ART-20046670?p=1

http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/growingstronger/why/

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