Bone Up on Strength Training

Bone Up on Strength Training
JORGE’S DAILY FIT TIP
By Jorge Cruise, LifeScript Fitness Coach

Monday, September 8, 2008
Strength training doesn’t just give you strong muscles; it also builds and fortifies your bones. And that’s good news for the estimated 34 million American adults who are at risk for developing osteoporosis. As you age, your bones lose calcium and other minerals making them more porous and susceptible to breaking. And while adequate dietary calcium and vitamin D are important, strength training can also do amazing things for your bones. Because strength training is a weight-bearing form of exercise, it actually enhances the density and durability of your bones. Your joints will also benefit since strength training makes the surrounding muscles, ligaments and tendons stronger. On top of all this, strength training also plays an important role in self-confidence since you can see and feel the results faster than with cardio alone. So don’t just hit the treadmill; pick up some dumbbells the next time you’re at the gym and build a stronger you!