Strength Training Important for the Elderly

Is it important for the elderly to do strength training? Absolutely it is! Even people who are in their 80s and 90s can enjoy many benefits by doing moderate levels of weight training two or three times per week.

Many clinical studies have shown that regular strength training for the elderly will build up muscle and bone. It also will counteract much of the frailty and weakness that we think is an inevitable part of aging.


Range-Master Stretch-Strap - Try one of our stretch straps to help you warm up for your regular work out routine.

Regular strength training increases not just the strength of the muscles; it also will increase muscular endurance.

Strength training for seniors can help you with many physical problems, such as:

• Osteoporosis, which is where much of the skeletal material starts to weaken and deteriorate over time. This can cause pain in the the joints, as well as deformity and fractures in the hips and spine.
  
• Arthritis, which is a type of osteoarthritis. This condition attacks joint cartilage.
  
• Balance, which can get worse as we get older, is often due to poor muscle strength and tone.
  
• Pulmonary disease, or COPD, which is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Some relief of the symptoms of this disease can be reduced with strengthening of the abdomen and chest.
  
• Back problems can be greatly improved with strengthening and stretches that focus on the sacral and lumbar areas. 

For some ideas on exercises to build strength as you age, please see these videos:

• Bent Knee Raise
• Curl Ups
• Hip Marching