Exercise for the Over 50s: The Benefits of Resistance Training | Physiotherapy | Coventry

As most of us would agree, when first considering exercise we tend to consider cardiovascular activities such as running or using the rowing machine. Generally speaking the prime instigator for these decisions is weight loss. Training the cardiovascular system is great for fat loss but on a whole does not really build muscle mass.

Now this is an important factor. As we get older, our muscles suffer from atrophy (decrease in size). From the age of 50, it has been suggested by research that our muscles can reduce in size/strength by 2% a year. In a measly five years your muscles can therefore reduce up to 10%!

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A reduction in muscle mass has a large impact on metabolism. Essentially, as we lose muscle mass, our metabolism also declines. Therefore our bodies are using up less energy during daily activities. If metabolism levels are reducing than the amount or intensity of the cardiovascular activities being accomplished will have to be increased. With this in mind strength training can therefore be beneficial for people in this age bracket.

But if weight training is not of interest then why not try exercise activities like Pilates or yoga? These are two exercises that we really promote the benefits of to all of our clients. Outside of the benefits of an increased metabolism, increasing strength will also aid improved postures increase endurance during exercise and daily activities and, in the long run, reduce your susceptibility to injuries and pain.

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For further advice on exercise for the over 50s please contact the clinic. We would be more than happy help you make the decisions you would benefit from making.

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