Health Tip: Muscle Your Way To Better Health

Americans, starting in their young adult years, lose about 6.6 pounds of lean body mass (muscle) per decade of life. This decline in muscle mass contributes to many health problems. Some of these health problems include the onset of non-insulin dependent diabetes, a decrease in the body’s ability to regulate body temperature, a loss in coordination and balance, an increased risk of falls and fractures, and a decrease in the Resting Metabolic Rate which can lead to weight gain and obesity.

The Good News is research (W. Evans et al., Tufts University, 1993) has shown that much of the muscle loss is preventable and possibly reversible even for people in their 70s, 80s, and older. Experts suggest that people, 40 years of age and older, begin weight training on a regular basis. 8 to 10 exercises involving the large muscle groups performed 2 or 3 times a week is enough to improve one’s health. If you are inexperienced with weight training, contact a local club to set up an appointment with a certified personal trainer. It may also be advisable for you to check with your physician before starting. Now, go get “pumped” up.