Fitness Articles and Facts About Fitness and Exercise
Bone Mass/Loss & Resistance Training Connection
Before we get down to discussing the actual topic of this article, we must understand the morphology of bone. We should also be able to question what bone mass/loss is and how it is connected to resistance training. So let’s get started.
Introduction to Bone, Bone Mass/Loss Our body is made up of bones and muscles. Bones are complex tissues that give our body structure and muscles support. Bones also protect our vital organs; they are storehouses of calcium that maintain our bone density. Bones are in a constant state of remodeling as they breakdown and rebuild regularly. However, physical stress and other hormonal factors (increase/decrease of testosterone/estrogen levels) affect the remodeling process leading to bone mass/loss. While bone loss is more commonly seen in seniors, some men and women can also suffer from it due to non-optimal hormonal levels.
Improving and Maintaining Bone Density Doctors and fitness experts suggest exercising for better overall health. Whether you are young or old, man or woman, resistance or “strength training” can go a long way in making your life pain-free (lessening chances of osteoporosis). That is because physical activity promotes better bone density and a healthier and stronger body. Currently, resistance training is one of the most prescribed ways to increase bone mass or bone density. Many studies have proven that if elders or postmenopausal women do strength training, their bone density will improve significantly. Resistance training is not about lifting heavy weights it is about increasing the “load” on your bone structure and muscles.
Resistance Training and Spinal Bone Density Several research reports have suggested that resistance training is very effective in increasing bone mass, more so spinal bone density. According to a research carried out by McMaster University, Ontario, it was found that a one-year resistance training program increased the spinal bone density in postmenopausal women by more than 9% and those who didn’t exercise, complained of bone loss.
Resistance Training and Healthier Old Age Consequently, if you start resistance training at a young age, you will benefit from enhanced bone mass, stronger muscles, and better balance. Resistance training at a young age will also improve the quality of your life as you grow older and can increase longevity.
A Little Strength Training Goes a Long Way Resistance training doesn’t have to be a tedious work out session. According to fitness and health experts, weight bearing exercises as well as physical impact promote bone remodeling. As you lift weights, your muscles grow stronger and your bones build up mass. Therefore, when you do resistance training, you put regular pressure on the bones, forcing them to equip themselves to bear weight and become stronger.
So, whether you lift weights, climb stairs or dance, you are doing resistance training that promotes mechanical stress on your skeletal system forcing it to grow dense and strong. Start now and ensure a healthier tomorrow.
Copyright Robert Brody Personal
Training Oklahoma City