Seniors Should Include Resistance Training in Their Exercise Routines

Think you are too old to pump iron? Research shows that for the majority of seniors who still do exercise, their regimen only includes aerobic exercises such as walking, biking, jogging or swimming. While these types of exercises are important to our overall health, a recent article published by the U.S. News & World Report explains why seniors can benefit from strength training. They state that fitness professionals as well as healthcare providers report everyone from 18 to 80 needs to do both cardiovascular and strengthening exercises. 

Recent research suggests that the benefits go beyond just building better tone and an improved shape as studies link “not just aerobic exercise but strength training with a reduced risk of death from all causes.” This is why the American Heart Association and American College of Sports Medicine recommends that even older adults follow their guidelines and do some level of strength training at least two days a week. As Dr. Jennifer Kraschnewski, an associate professor of medicine, pediatrics and public health sciences at the Penn State College of Medicine points out “ very good evidence [is available] to show that 80-year-olds are just as able to improve their muscle mass as 50-year-olds. And this can be done reliably over a very short period of time – something as short as two to three months."

At MorningStar of Boulder, we provide quality, all-encompassing senior retirement living with our range of wellness programs and activities that support and engage our residents including physical activities designed for all levels of fitness. One look at our monthly calendar and you will see a variety of exercise classes available daily along with many other entertaining and meaningful programs. Please visit our website to learn about our unique and loving assisted living and memory care. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and invite you to schedule a visit to experience the area’s finest senior retirement living. 

Source:

health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/articles/2018-06-26/could-pumping-iron-help-you-live-longer