As the Baby Boomers (1946-1964) hit their 50s and beyond, health experts are seeing an increasing number of issues arise for keeping fit and healthy into our latter years.
It is well documented that as we grow older, more than ever we need to keep up our fitness and health to function at our best. Research highlights the benefits associated with strength training for the older population. One significant finding has been that without strength training, muscle mass declines with age and declines at an accelerated rate after the age of 45.
Other key findings include — that falls are the leading cause of hospitalisation for people over the age of 65, the effects of osteoporosis are reduced by a strength training programme, and resistance training in the older population improves strength, balance, gait, flexibility and co-ordination. Muscle content and strength can be regained and improved no matter what the age or condition of the person.
If you read this and think to yourself, I'm over 50, I play golf three times a week and walk once a week, that should be enough. Or I'm over 50 and walk every morning. Isn't that better than doing nothing? Yes, it's great you're active. However, how is your flexibility and range of motion. Can you swing your golf club without feeling a twinge in your back or a niggle here and there? Walking is great exercise, but do you find your upper body lacks strength to lift. The point is there is nothing that improves muscle strength like resistance training does.
If you don't practise stretching your muscles and moving your body through a big range of motion exercises or practise balancing techniques then you are in danger of becoming one of the statistics in the research.
There are several solutions you can make to improve your existing fitness programme. The first is to consult an expert on how you can benefit from adding some simple strength exercises into your daily routine. The second is find a gym you are comfortable with, where they have the expertise and equipment to help you with your needs. The third could be to get a group of your friends together, and meet somewhere for a stretching session or an exercise session taken by an experienced instructor.
