Strength training is an important part of health and wellness, especially as we age. Aging causes our muscles to weaken, and our balance and coordination can become impaired. Strength training can help improve balance and coordination, which can help reduce the risk of falls and other accidents. Here are five reasons why strength training is important when aging in a senior living in San Antonio, TX.
Improve Quality of Life
Strength training helps improve overall physical and mental health and quality of life. Strength training can also improve mobility, allowing older adults to remain active and independent for longer. A variety of strength training exercises can be done in a retirement community, including weight machines, free weights, resistance bands, and bodyweight exercises. Talking to an exercise specialist or physical therapist before beginning any strength training program is important to ensure it is done safely and properly.
Maintain Muscle Mass and Bone Density
Our bodies lose muscle mass and bone density as we age. This can increase our risk of falls, decrease mobility, and decrease our quality of life. Strength training can help to counteract these effects and help to maintain muscle mass and bone density.
In addition to helping to preserve physical health, strength training can also help to improve mental clarity and boost energy levels. Regular strength training can lead to improved coordination, balance, and flexibility, which can help older adults remain independent and safe. Strength training can also help to improve posture, reduce the risk of injury, and even help to prevent or reduce the severity of chronic conditions such as arthritis.
Increases Flexibility
Strength training can help to increase flexibility, which is especially important for older adults who may not have as much natural flexibility as they used to. By engaging in regular strength training, those in their golden years can build and maintain muscle mass, which can help to improve one’s range of motion and reduce the risk of falls.
Improve Posture
Strength training helps keep bones, muscles, and joints strong and flexible, which is essential for maintaining balance and preventing falls. It also helps to improve posture and reduce back discomfort. You can move more confidently and with greater ease when you increase your strength. It can also help to boost your mood and improve your overall quality of life.
Reduce Pain and Inflammation
As we age, our bodies are more prone to developing chronic pain and inflammation, and strength training can help reduce these issues. Not only does strength training in senior living help with reducing pain, but it also helps to increase muscle strength, balance, and coordination, all of which can be beneficial for older adults.
Additionally, strength training helps to keep bones strong and can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and other age-related bone issues. Finally, it can help improve overall physical health, mental health, and quality of life.