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Resistance Training For Better Aging
Although the 10,000 Steps project promotes the simple concept of walking to promote health, there is a need for people to supplement regular walking with additional and different activities. Simply put, once you have taken the first step and added a daily walk to your routine, you should seriously consider doing some resistance training, especially as you age (and we are all aging).
Research has shown that resistance exercises - those aimed at increasing your strength - are both safe and effective for people of all ages, including those who are not in perfect health.
In fact, people with health concerns - including heart disease or arthritis - often benefit the most from an exercise program that includes lifting weights a few times a week.
Recent research from America showed that older men and women with moderate to severe knee osteo-arthritis benefited from a regular resistance training program. The results of the sixteen week program showed that strength training decreased pain, increased muscle strength and general physical performance, improved the clinical signs and symptoms of the disease, and decreased disability.
Strength training, particularly in conjunction with regular walking, can also have a profound impact on a person's mental and emotional health.
There are numerous other benefits to resistance training, particularly as you grow older. It can be very effective in reducing the signs and symptoms of numerous diseases and chronic conditions including diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, back pain and depression.
Don't let age or disability be a barrier to resistance training. Almost everyone will benefit from increased strength.
Article by Professor Kerry Mummery
Central Queensland University
