Life May Be Better for Older Adults Who Lift Weights
By Tom Herrin
It may be hard to believe that any older individuals would spend any time or effort lifting weights, but it does happen. Those who are older are not totally incapable, and they may actually be able to preserve and improve their health by participating in weight training. For sure, it is not the picture that we often have of those who are involved in such activities, but it may be a way for them to enhance health both physically and mentally. Doing this may enable them to live a more fulfilling and independent life, and that is what most of us desire.
Lifting May Help Prevent Muscle Loss
For all of us, aging can have us seeing a decline in our muscles. We may lose tone and strength. We may also tend to put on excess fat. The combination may cause us to feel as if we are beyond any ability to stay in shape. This is not necessarily the case. Weight training may help to ramp up our metabolism and burn fat. As we do this, we may build strength. It can change the way our bodies work and look. Our goal here is not to be bodybuilders but to simply establish a routine that can help to keep us in much better shape.
Lifting May Help Us Perform Daily Tasks Better
As we age, many of us tend to lose independence due to the fact that we are no longer physically able to do what we need to. Even walking can become a chore for some. Studies have shown that weight training may help to strengthen our muscles to the extent that we may make measurable gains. If we are better able to carry ourselves and do the simple things in daily life, we will be able to maintain our independence. This is important for both physical and mental health.
Lifting May Strengthen Cardio
We are all aware that our heart and circulatory system are important. Lifting weight is a proven way to strengthen them. It may help to raise good cholesterol and lower both bad cholesterol and triglycerides. It can also help to lower blood pressure. Strengthening the heart muscle can help to move more blood more efficiently. This means less strain on the heart while doing a better job of supplying blood to various parts of the body.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Bluffton, S.C.