Think You Are Too Old to Lift Weights?
By Tom Herrin
Most of us have changes in our perceptions about things over time. As we age, it is easy to learn from experience that some of those ages we once considered old and barely capable are not so old at all. How many people have felt like the thought of older individuals lifting weights was absurd? In reality, older people can gain some pretty good benefits from participating in weight training. It is not terribly difficult, and you may be surprised at the kinds of results you can have. With a little care and education about it, doing so may be one of the best things you can do.
Using Weights Can Improve Cardio
Many older people are concerned with the possibility of issues involving the heart and circulatory system. Weight training has been shown to yield good results. In studies, it has been shown to raise HDL, and lower LDL and triglycerides. It has also been shown to lower blood pressure. These are serious concerns for many individuals in maintaining good cardiovascular health.
Working with Weights May Improve Body Tone
We have all seen people we once knew to be in reasonably good shape and noticed that they are now drastically changed. Many of them have gained weight, particularly in their middle. They also may appear to have lost muscle tone. These two things combined can create a considerably different look. Weight training is known to be able to help increase the body's ability to burn fat and increase your metabolism.. It also can help to strengthen muscle tone and have a much better definition. It can help to increase muscle mass as well.
We May Be Able to Live More Independently
Let's face it, many people lose their independence as they age. Part of this is due to their inability to perform basic functions. If you can't take out the trash, it will pile up in the house. This is much the same with other things. Simply getting out of a bathtub can be a problem for many. Whether it is basic lifting or getting ourselves around, weight training can help to build strength so that we can do simple things. Once we lose the ability to do those, we will have to depend on others to do them. It can be frustrating and depressing for many older people. If we can support our independence by working with weights, why not try it?
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Redmond, Wash.