Benefits of Strength Training for Older Adults

If you’re not a fitness buff, the thought of lifting weights and strength training can seem intimidating. In fact, it may seem so intimidating that it isn’t even on your fitness radar. The older you get, the creakier you tend to feel in the joints and muscles, so walking, swimming, and other light cardiovascular exercises may be what you are drawn to. But what science has unveiled over the last few decades is that strength training is one of the most effective ways to:

• Burn Calories
• Increase metabolism (the ability to burn calories while at rest)
• Prevent or reverse age related muscle loss (sarcopenia)
• Increase bone density
• Lower blood pressure
• Help control blood sugar
• Improve immune system
• Reduce back pain
• Increase stamina

Strength training benefits for older adults are downright astonishing. And you can see those results from super-slow strength training, which is brief, safe, low-impact exercises you do just a couple of times a week. Sound too good to be true? It’s not!

 

Safe and Effective

Super-slow strength training features high-intensity exercises in a 30-minute period, just twice a week. This method is the recommended regimen for the best overall results, whether you’re looking to lose weight or increase strength, stamina and mobility. But what does “intensity” really mean? With Super-slow strength training it means performing the exercise slowly with a demanding amount of resistance that will push your muscles to momentary muscular fatigue or “failure”, which is the most effective way to strength train. It is low-impact and low-force, so the body can take the intensity safely. This method is therefore perfect for anyone with chronic joint pain or injuries because it strengthens the muscles around the joint without putting additional stress on the joint.

 

Rely on a Helping Hand

With anything new, the right kind of help is often all it takes to get ourselves in gear. The thought of strength training might seem like stepping onto another planet and finding a personal trainer can seem equally foreign. But a knowledgeable personal trainer is the best way to ensure you’re getting the most out of your workout, and that you’re doing each exercise safely and with correct form. Personal trainers keep you motivated, hold you accountable, and help you with the discipline and knowledge to stay on track. Nutrition is also a huge key when it comes to fitness and your personal trainer can help you in this area as well.

Older adults have different needs than younger adults when it comes to strength training. The certified, friendly trainers at Loyalty Fitness keep up-to-date on the best fitness methods for seniors in order to keep you on track, safe, and reaching your goals. The best part? You don’t need to go to a crowded gym. You can work one-on-one with your trainer at our private training gym, or schedule a virtual personal training session and work out right in your own living room at home!

Scientific research has shown, and regular people have proven through experience, that the strength training benefits for older adults are overwhelmingly positive. Whether you suffer from chronic pain, have recently recovered from an injury or surgery, or just want to feel like your old self again, consider strength training. It might be a step outside your comfort zone, but it’s a step in the right direction, contact Loyalty Fitness today to get started!