Strength training is a critical activity that nearly everyone should engage in, especially later in life.
As we get older, Father Time starts to take its toll on our bodies, leading to a loss of muscle and, critically, a loss of strength. Fortunately, strength training is an effective, practical, and drug-free way to fight back.
The activity does not even have to be substantial or time-consuming. Even a couple of short sessions a week can net significant benefits.
Here are five reasons nearly everyone, especially seniors, should train their muscles.
Muscle and Strength Preservation
Sure, competitive powerlifting can risk destroying your back, but that is not what we are talking about here. Strength training for health, using reasonably heavy but safe weights, can help you preserve muscle mass and retain strength.
Why is that important?
Strength later in life can mean you retain independence for longer. It can mean the difference between being able to reach dishes overhead from the top of the kitchen cabinet versus needing assistance. It can enable you to continue climbing stairs for years longer and lift yourself off the toilet, to name just a few examples.
Boost Your Mood
The mental improvements that strength training can elicit cannot be overstated. Frequent exercise releases endorphins, cuts anxiety, and builds self-esteem. As previously reported in The Dallas Express, it may even help grow your brain and improve overall cognitive health.
Fire Up Your Metabolism
More than just building muscle, strength training can boost your metabolism, helping you maintain a healthy weight. Muscles need more calories to sustain themselves, giving you more wiggle room when overeating.
Drop Your Chances of Falling
Stronger legs and a more robust core can help you retain balance and lower your chances of falling. This critical benefit is especially important as we age when falls can be debilitating or even deadly.
Protect Your Bones
Applying a load to your body against gravity, like squatting with weight, does not just stimulate your muscles; it promotes bone growth. This benefit reduces your chances of experiencing a fracture and lowers your risk of osteoporosis.