Did you know that you lose 70 percent of your strength as you age primarily from a decline in physical activity? According to the Mayo Clinic you may notice things getting harder as you age, so instead of maintaining or improving your function, you may cut back or stop your favorite physical activity. It all goes downhill from there…you become weaker, dependent on others, and overall your quality of life diminishes. That sounds a lot like giving up or failing to focus on what you CAN do instead of what you’re unable to do. I have news for you…it doesn’t have to be like that! Just by following a few key steps your health and well-being can be at your finger tips. Listen up…
Muscle matters and even if you’re not planning on entering any body building contests your strength will serve you well. Muscles are responsible for every movement that you make… and strong, developed muscles make it easier to live a full and productive life. Strength training will improve your mind, body, & spirit…check it out…
- Improving bone health is essential in preventing osteoporosis especially in women. We all know strength training increases bone density.
- Who doesn’t want to improve their weight and reduce body fat? Muscle burns fat and helps you control your body weight. Muscles gained through strength training help you burn calories more easily. Ever hear the term… “slow metabolism?” The last time I checked…we are the masters of our metabolism!
- Strength training can reduce your risk of injury. Joints can become more stable and muscles can protect you and your spine. A good strength training program will include: stability and balance, coordination, and agility which will definitely reduce your risk of falls and injuries.
- Do you suffer from back pain and arthritis? Strengthening is often a critical component of alleviating joint pain and strengthening lower back muscles. Blood flow is vital for regeneration and healing. It’s all about the movement.
- Strength training improves your body’s ability to process the sugar in your blood. So, for diabetics and especially insulin resistance…strength training helps reduce body fat , which lowers the risk of diabetes.
- Keeping your mind sharper is definitely a by product of strength training. Studies indicate that training once or twice a week improves cognitive function. There is a lot to be said for “using it or losing it.”
With no strength training and little or no movement… muscle loss and weakness is guaranteed. A downward spiral will occur and you will suffer the consequences. Falls and fractures will increase as well as difficulty handling everyday tasks. Do you want to be tired all the time and feel like a bowl of jello? You will directly influence your quality of life. What will it be? Weak and feeble… or strong and steady? Seems like a no-brainer to me…take action and if you need help…don’t forget to ask the help of a professional. Your family and friends want the best for you! You should too, because you deserve it.
Don’t be mushy! Be Strong!
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