What does strength training have to do with osteoporosis?

Written by Carrie Wiwcharuk
photo credit: Public Health Agency of Canada
Perhaps a family member has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, maybe you have heard about this condition on the news, or you have never given it a second thought, regardless, as a Balance Studio Fitness member you are already working to prevent or manage this bone disease.
What is Osteoporosis?
According to Osteoporosis Canada, Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue. This leads to increased bone fragility and risk of fracture (broken bones), particularly of the hip, spine and wrist. Sadly, this bone disease can rob people of their quality of life.
What you can do?
Physical activity, especially strength training, puts a load or force on our bones, the bones respond by forming new bone, making them stronger and the risk of osteoporosis decreases.
For osteoporosis sufferers, continuing to be physically active improves strength, flexibility and posture, which reduces pain and makes daily tasks easier to complete. If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis please consult your physician before attempting a new exercise.
What are some strength training activities?
According to Canada’s Physical Activity Guide :
• heavy yard work, such as cutting and piling wood
• raking and carrying leaves
• lifting and carrying groceries, not to mention infants and toddlers
• climbing stairs
• exercises like abdominal curls and push-ups
• wearing a backpack carrying school books
• weight/strength-training routines
Continuing to keep exercise and strength training as a part of your life will translate into stronger bones and a decreased risk of osteoporosis! Fantastic!For more information about strength training go to page five of your Balance 8 week Challenge Manual.
For further questions make sure to email Bonnie at bonnie.balancefitness@gmail.com.