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sean@leanandstrongfitness.com

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September 7, 2022

The Importance of Strength Training for Older Adults

As we age, it becomes more and more important to stay active and implement strength training into our workout routines. Strength training not only helps us maintain our independence late in life but also wards off many age-related diseases and conditions. However, starting a strength training program can be daunting, especially if you've never done it before. This is where having a personal trainer can be extremely beneficial.

When we get older, our bones continue to grow thinner and our muscles continue to shrink. This gradual loss of muscle mass and strength is called “sarcopenia”, and it starts as early as age 30! Sarcopenia can lead to frailty, falls, and a decrease in independence. But there is hope! Regular strength training can help offset the effects of sarcopenia and lead to a healthier, more independent life later on.

Personal trainers are experts in helping people of all ages and fitness levels meet their fitness goals. They will work with you to create a personalized workout program that incorporates strength training while still being safe for your unique physical abilities and limitations.

The Benefits of Strength Training for Older Adults

There are countless benefits to incorporating strength training into your workout routine as you age. First and foremost, strength training helps improve your balance and coordination, reduces your risk of falls, and recovering from a fall becomes easier because you're stronger.

Regular strength training can help prevent or delay the development of many age-related diseases and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease, and even some forms of cancer.

In addition to offsetting the effects of sarcopenia, regular strength training can also: 

  • Improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures
  • Decrease the risk of falling
  • Reduce chronic pain
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Boost cognitive function
  • Improve mental health
  • Reduce anxiety and depression symptoms
  • Improve sleep quality
  • Increase energy levels

As you can see, strength training isn’t just about being “strong” – it’s about being healthy and independent late in life. 

Why Personal Trainers Matter

Sarcopenia is a natural part of aging, but that doesn’t mean we just have to accept it. Strength training is the most effective way to combat sarcopenia and maintain muscle mass as we age. However, starting (and sticking with) a strength training program can be tough, especially if you’ve never done it before. That’s where personal trainers come in! A good personal trainer will be able to design a program specifically tailored to your needs and goals. They will also provide motivation and support to help you stick with your program long-term. 

How Can You Get Started?

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to incorporate strength training into our workout routines to maintain our independence late in life. However, starting a strength training program can seem intimidating if you've never done it before. This is where having a personal trainer can make all the difference. Personal trainers are experts in helping people of all ages create personalized workout programs that incorporate safe strength training exercises. If you're looking to improve your balance & coordination, ward off age-related diseases & conditions, or just boost your overall mood - reach out to us to start working with a personal trainer and get started on a safe & effective strength training program today!

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