Importance of Strengthening Programs for Older Adults 

Do you hope to maintain quality of life as you grow older?

Our bodies are designed for movement, however many of us have jobs that require us to sit or stand for long periods of time, or require repetitive activities which negatively affect our posture, our movements and our strength. The result is stiffness, aches and pains and lack of energy. A successful strength program will decrease body fat and increase muscle mass. Building muscle protects your joints from injury and boosts your stamina.

The key is finding a strength program that you’ll stick with. 

Some factors to consider are:

Innovative:  Doing the same exercises workout after workout is just plain boring. A strengthening program will be more successful if it is innovative and the routine and exercises are changed up.

Minimal Equipment: If you require too much equipment it can be cost prohibitive or inconvenient to get to a facility that has the required equipment. The best programs require minimal specialized equipment and can be done almost anywhere.

Fun/social: In order to stick with a program you have to enjoy it. Having company to workout with makes it a lot more fun. It is also easier to commit to a time and stick with it if you are meeting someone to workout together. Upbeat music is also a great motivator.

Brock Tadashore is a certified athletic therapist at Maximum Physiotherapy who offers a fun & innovative strengthening program called Power Hour on Wednesdays from 7-8pm.  For more information visit www.maximumphysiotherapy.com or call 444-3600.