For Fifty Plus - Stave Off Muscle and Bone Loss with Weight Training

For Fifty Plus - Our bodies naturally begin to lose muscle between ages 25 and 30. The older we get, the faster the muscle loss occurs. Muscle loss hits about one pound per year around age 40.

As we lose muscle, we gain fat, which results in fewer calories burned and more weight gained. Weight training is especially important to people over age 50 because it can prevent age-related muscle and bone loss.

Multiple studies have shown that strength training also has the ability to prevent osteoporosis, particularly in women. Participating in weight-bearing activities for at least 30 minutes three times per week will help you reverse these age-related processes.

A good portion of age-related muscle atrophy occurs in the legs, so make sure your weight-lifting program adequately focuses on the lower body. Remember to talk with your physician before beginning any exercise program.