Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
The Importance of Strength Training for Seniors<br />
By: Tom Harmon / Lean Dog<br />
Strength training is essential<br />
for people of all ages, but it<br />
is especially crucial for seniors.<br />
As people age, their muscles<br />
gradually weaken, leading to various health problems,<br />
such as frailty, falls, and difficulty performing daily<br />
tasks.<br />
However, the good news is that strength training can<br />
help seniors improve their muscle strength, balance,<br />
and overall quality of life.<br />
Compared to other modalities, such as cardio or<br />
flexibility exercises, strength training offers unique<br />
benefits for seniors. For instance, cardio exercises, such<br />
as walking or cycling, primarily focus on improving<br />
cardiovascular health, which is undoubtedly essential.<br />
Unfortunately, they do not provide the same benefits<br />
as strength training when it comes to building and<br />
maintaining muscle mass.<br />
On the other hand, flexibility exercises, such as yoga<br />
or stretching, can help improve range of motion and joint health. They<br />
do not, however, offer the same benefits as strength training when it<br />
comes to improving muscle strength and preventing muscle loss.<br />
Strength training, therefore, should be an integral part of any<br />
senior’s exercise routine. It not only helps build and<br />
maintain muscle mass but also improves bone density,<br />
reduces the risk of falls, and enhances balance and<br />
stability.<br />
Furthermore, strength training can help seniors<br />
maintain their independence and perform everyday<br />
tasks with ease, such as carrying groceries or getting<br />
up from a chair.<br />
Strength training can also be customized to meet<br />
individual needs and abilities. Seniors can choose<br />
to use free weights, resistance bands, or machines,<br />
depending on their preference and physical limitations.<br />
It can also be tailored to meet individual needs<br />
and abilities and is suitable for seniors with various<br />
medical conditions. Therefore, seniors should prioritize<br />
strength training as part of their exercise routine to<br />
maintain their physical health and overall quality of<br />
life.<br />
Tom Harmon is a Certified Fitness Trainer & Nutritionist and<br />
owns Lean Dog Fitness in Henderson. Call 702/297-6440 to book<br />
your free intro/assessment to begin your journey to reclaim your<br />
health. www.leandogfitness.com<br />
25
Change language