Weight training and stretching are beneficial at any age, but they can be particularly helpful to older adults who are facing concerns with strength, balance, and mobility. Regular resistance training and stretching can help to keep you feeling healthy and strong.
HERE IS A GUIDE ON HOW THE AGING PROCESS CAN IMPACT THE BODY AND HOW MOVEMENT CAN HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE, WITH A COMPLETE HOME-BASED EXERCISE AND STRETCHING ROUTINE.
Aging has an effect on your physical body, and some of the common changes that can occur include decreased range of motion, strength loss, and balance loss. A decrease in the range of motion may be caused by a variety of factors, such as alterations in connective tissue, the development of arthritis, loss of muscle mass, and more.
In addition, age-related sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass and function) is a very real phenomenon that affects many individuals as they age. This muscle loss can result from a number of issues such as hormonal changes, decreased activity levels, and an unbalanced diet that is low in calories and protein. Muscle atrophy rate accelerates after the age of 50 and this has an exponential effect.
Declining balance is another typical outcome of the aging process, and is mainly due to our visual, vestibular, and joint systems being less effective as we get older. Our eyesight becomes impaired, our cognitive abilities deteriorate, and our joints become less mobile, thus resulting in reduced balance.
Incorporating weight training and stretching into your daily routine can help combat these age-related changes, enabling you to feel and function better as you age.
Remember, making healthy decisions and being conscious of your lifestyle can serve you for years to come.