Why Weightlifting is Great for Seniors

If you feel like you are too old to get into weightlifting, think again! Weightlifting is great for people of all ages, but it has some special benefits for older adults specifically. Here are some reasons to get into weightlifting even if you are later in life.

Benefits to the Body

An unpleasant truth about aging is that once you are over the age of 40 muscle mass and bone mass decline dramatically year after year. As you get into your 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s, this loss of muscle and bone mass increases your risk of falling. A fall at this age could have devastating consequences like a hospital stay, loss of independence, and chronic pain.

Weightlifting, on the other hand, can increase bone mass, leading to stronger bones. It also, of course, builds up the muscle around bones and joints to better support them. As seniors begin weightlifting, they may start to notice that their joints ache less, they have better range of motion, and they may gain better balance. Weightlifting can also increase your lung capacity and endurance levels. All in all, you are likely to notice that daily activities become easier for you.

Benefits to the Mind

Not only is weightlifting good for the body, but it is also good for the mind. Seniors can often become depressed when their bodies do not work like they want them to or when they think about things, they used to be able to do but can no longer. Physical limitations and chronic pain can have an extremely negative affect on your mind. Weightlifting, however, can help seniors to take back some of their independence and manage their pain more. In addition, this activity can help seniors to sleep better, have driven and focus, and aid in staving off degenerative diseases. All these things combined can lead to a better quality of life for seniors.

Just know that no matter what, you are never too old to start weight training. Stop in our Junkyard training facility and one of our qualified personal trainers can help you or a loved one get started.

Posted By Junkyard Training on 11-12-2021