The Importance of Strength Training for Senior Citizens

Elderly people are often disheartened by their lack of physical stamina. Even if someone’s endurance is not what it once was, there is hope to improve his or her way of life. By making some changes to their daily lives to include physical activities, elderly people can improve their strength and coordination.

It is no secret that we lose muscle mass as we age. However, we do have the ability to slow the rate with which we lose our strength. Elderly people who do not exercise see a much more rapid decrease in strength and muscle mass than those who do. By adding a strength training program to their lives, elderly people can remain strong and improve their lives in the process.

When we work out we strengthen our muscles, bones and tendons by increasing their size and density. When we don’t work out the opposite happens. Our muscles and bones can actually shrink and become less dense when don’t use them and this happens at a much faster rate as we age. Even elderly people with poor strength can see results relatively quickly if they begin a proper strength training program.

One of the main reasons that older people choose not to participate in strength training is that they fear the workouts will be too strenuous and cause further complications to existing health conditions such as arthritis. Strength training can have negative effects, especially for beginners. Therefore it is wise to consult a doctor before starting and to come up with a plan to start slowly.

A typical exercise program consists of both free weight and machine training that works to strengthen both the upper and lower body. It is a good idea to alternate between different body parts when working out and to work out at least three days a week. Just by adding a simple strength training program such as this, a person of any age can improve his or her overall health. Elderly people can have the added benefit of improving their everyday lives by making simple tasks easier to perform.

The staff at Home Advantage Rehabilitation will be happy to help set up a plan that is right for you. Give us a call today at 516-459-9439