The beginning of a new year is an exciting time. We hope for good health and happiness. Let’s work on making those New Year’s Resolutions come true.
A natural part of aging is losing muscle mass. Unfortunately this can lead to being unable to perform daily tasks, losing your independence and increasing the need for long-term care. Staying active and working with weights and resistance can help build muscle.
According to mayoclinic.org: Strength training can help you preserve and enhance your muscle mass at any age.
Strength training may also help you:
- Develop strong bones. By stressing your bones, strength training can increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Manage your weight. Strength training can help you manage or lose weight, and it can increase your metabolism to help you burn more calories.
- Enhance your quality of life. Strength training may enhance your quality of life and improve your ability to do everyday activities. Strength training can also protect your joints from injury. Building muscle also can contribute to better balance and may reduce your risk of falls. This can help you maintain independence as you age.
- Manage chronic conditions. Strength training can reduce the signs and symptoms of many chronic conditions, such as arthritis, back pain, obesity, heart disease, depression and diabetes.
- Sharpen your thinking skills. Some research suggests that regular strength training and aerobic exercise may help improve thinking and learning skills for older adults.
Whether you go to a gym or work out at home it’s important for everyone to exercise. Many people find it helpful to have a work out buddy to provide encouragement, motivation and accountability.
