Interested in reading on how exercise can improve bone density?
Read below!!!
As we all age, there is one underlying issue that commonly comes up. Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a common disease in Australia, with 1.2 million people estimated to have osteoporosis and a further 6.3 million with low bone density. (Healthy Bones Australia, 2024) Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases, or when the structure and strength of bone changes, which can lead to a decrease in bone strength that can increase the risk of fractures. (National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, 2024) There are numerous ways to decrease your chances of obtaining Osteoporosis or Low Bone Density, however one important way we can slow the process and even build new bone is through Weight Bearing Exercise. Activities that put stress on bones stimulate extra deposits of calcium and nudge bone-forming cells into action. The tugging and pushing on bone that occur during strength and power training provide the stress from stronger, denser bones. (Harvard Health, 2021) Running and Walking have been seen to improve bone density, however it’s very important to understand that whatever exercise you are performing, the bones that are weight bearing will be the only ones that seek the reward from that exercise. For example, if you need to improve your bone strength in the upper body, weight bearing exercises on weight machines, group classes, and even aqua aerobics will target these areas.
There is already 1.2 million with osteoporosis development and 6.3 million with further low bone density, so it is vitally important to put in consistent workout habits each week to reduce your chance of developing this disease. From 2022, the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that only 1 in 5 adults reach the minimum exercise guidelines. With 80% of the population falling short, it is the main reason why so many health experts and enthusiasts are so passionate about moving their body. If you know that you have fallen below the guidelines and can see the potential possibility of diseases developing due to lifestyle choices, it’s time to make the change now. Don’t regret getting older and developing a painful disease such as Osteoporosis. Start reducing your risk now.