Aging With Weight Training May Be Better
By Tom Herrin
Most of us are concerned about what we can do to stay young. Some of it is because we need it for our self-esteem, but some of it is because we are insecure about what the future may bring in the way of our ability to continue to do the things we have always enjoyed. It has been found that weight training may be a great help to us as we grow older. Several studies now provide high hopes that we may be able to maintain a much more youthful appearance as well as stay mentally and physically fit.
Keep Muscle and Burn Fat
We have all seen someone who has grown older and had a somewhat drastic change in their appearance. They may have put on extra pounds and lost considerable muscle. They sag where they once fit. Weight training may help to combat both of these things. It can increase the metabolism and burn fat. While it does this, it may help us to better utilize the nutrients we take in. Building strength and muscle mass can be a big help to us. This can combat the natural muscle loss that can occur as we age.
Protect the Bones and Skeletal System
As we age, most of us tend to lose some of the strength in our bones. It is pretty common but can result in some serious problems. Studies have shown that weight-bearing activities can help to strengthen the bones and increase density. Weight training is also effective in dealing with arthritis as it can increase mobility and lessen pain. I know I have experienced this with an arthritic shoulder and have a noticeable improvement when I stay on a regular program of weight training. It may sound like something difficult, but it is really a simple way to deal with it.
It May Be Good for Sleep
A lot of us have trouble sleeping as we grow older. Weight training has been found to improve sleep. Much of the time, when we have sleep problems, our sleep cycles are being interrupted. Weight training seems to help make these cycles work better. I can attest to this as well as I notice considerable improvement in my ability to go to sleep and stay asleep when I am participating in a regular schedule of weight training.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cedar Park, Tex.