Weight Training and Aging May Go Well Together
By Tom Herrin
At one time, if someone would have mentioned anything about weight training, I would have pictured them with perspiration dripping off of bulging muscles as they wore some kind of tights. This is really not what it is all about. Weight training can help us to improve a lot of things about our health and not just building big muscles. Apparently, older people may actually have a lot to gain from participating in this. Studies have shown that it may enhance life and help us to avoid problems that we once believed were an inevitable part of growing older.
Avoid Muscle Loss
We all have seen individuals who have had dramatic changes in their appearances with age. We may have expected that trim, fit person we knew only to find someone who was pudgy and soft. What happened to them? Muscle loss is a pretty natural part of aging if we don't take steps to prevent it. Weight training can help us to avoid this problem. It may help to increase the metabolism and burn fat. It also builds muscle mass and helps to preserve strength. As it does all of this, it helps us to use the nutrients we take in more efficiently.
Strengthen Bones
Another common problem with aging is a weakening of bones. Serious injuries to the skeletal system are common, and sometimes life-threatening. Weight bearing exercise is known to help to strengthen bones and increase density. It can also help those with arthritis. In my own case, when I do weight training in an area of my body in which I have arthritis, I find that I have greater mobility and less pain. It is just a matter of making the decision to do it.
Better Thinking
Having a brain that functions well is pretty important. A common reference to older people is one that makes note of their loss of mental function. Whether it is the ability to perform some tasks or remember things, we all have seen the examples. Studies have shown that much of this can be improved by participating in weight training. It can help to promote better blood flow to the brain as well as support good blood pressure numbers. This all plays a part in good mental abilities, and this makes it a good investment of our time and effort.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Austin, Tex.