Why do aging adults end up in assisted living facilities? It’s right there in the title, it might sound crass but it’s because of an inability to complete basic movements and tasks. It’s a sad thing but it is also preventable!
Strength training offers a range of benefits for older adults, not just for maintaining muscle mass but for overall health and quality of life. Some of the key benefits include:
1. Improved Muscle Mass & Strength
As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass and strength, a condition called sarcopenia. Strength training helps counteract this, maintaining or even building muscle mass, which is crucial for day-to-day activities like getting up from a chair or carrying groceries!
2. Enhanced Balance & Stability
Strengthening muscles, especially in the legs and core, improves balance and coordination, which can help reduce the risk of falls—a common concern as we age. Stronger muscles can help stabilize the body, making it easier to recover from slips or stumbles.
3. Bone Health
Weight-bearing exercises like strength training stimulate bone growth and help maintain bone density. This is especially important for preventing osteoporosis, which becomes more prevalent with age. Stronger bones are less likely to break, reducing the risk of fractures.
4. Joint Health & Mobility
Strengthening the muscles around the joints provides better support and stability, reducing the risk of joint pain or injury. It can also improve flexibility and mobility, making it easier to move comfortably and independently.
5. Improved Metabolism & Weight Management
Strength training increases muscle mass, which in turn boosts metabolism. This can help older adults maintain a healthy weight or prevent the accumulation of excess fat, reducing the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
These are just some of the reasons to continue weight training deep into the later years of life!
Do you know of anyone in your life that has tried strength training? How’s it going for them?
Have you seen the results from training? If not, come check us out https://crossfitroyalcoast.com
