When you think of strength training, what image comes to mind? Big, dumb guys lifting huge barbells on a beach? Body Builders with leather brown and oiled skin, flexing muscles that look like a cross between the incredible Hulk and the Micheline Man?

 

Actually, the fastest growing groups of "weight lifters" are women and adults over 50. Strength training is for everyone! Stronger muscles (not necessarily bigger), can make everyday tasks easier, reduce risk of injury and improve posture.

 

 

 

Skeletal muscles are responsible for body movement and maintaining joint stability. The body's total muscle mass peaks in the late 20's and begins to decline steadily afterwards. Like many of the physical aspects of aging, the decline in muscle mass can be slowed down or reversed with regular exercise.

 

Recent studies have shown that even 80-year olds can increase strength and muscle mass with a moderate strength training program. Muscles grow stronger when they are regularly worked against increased resistance. The resistance can be supplied by barbells, weight machines, elastic bands/tubing or one's own bodyweight.

 

Strength training does not have to be excessively strenuous. Each major muscle group should be worked. This is not an excessive amount of weight and can easily be tolerated by adults of all ages.

 

Don't let the muscle boys have all the fun...Try some strength training today!