Exercising Your Bones to Prevent Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis and brittle bones can be a big risk to older women. Women are more likely to lose bone density as they age, which results in brittle bones more at risk for fractures.

Physicians used to think that medication was the most effective treatment for osteoporosis, but new research has shown that physical therapy designed for building bone mass combined with hitting the gym may be the go-to cure for this disease.

Now doctors are saying that the secret weapon in the fight for better bones is strength training.

During a strength training exercise the muscles contract and pull on the bones to move the body. This muscle contraction encourages your body to lay more calcium down in the bones near these active muscles. So weight bearing training has the dual benefit of strengthening muscles and not only preventing but reversing bone loss.

Many patients worry that they are “too old” to take up strength training in the gym, but weight bearing training is adaptable to individuals of all ages. If you’re interested in beginning a strength training program to help reverse your bone loss, a certified personal trainer will be able to develop a personalized fitness program tailored to your needs.

Before starting a new exercise program, always consult with your primary care physician or medical professional.