Aging is inevitable; however, aging well takes work. Research shows that there are myriad benefits to exercise when it comes to reducing risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, and depression.
A study from Sweden suggests that ‘highly fit’ women in mid-life were nearly 90% less likely to develop dementia years later. Combine exercise with a healthy diet and lifestyle modifications (including restorative sleep, controlled blood pressure, mindfulness – as in The Top 10 Brain Health Boosts from Drs. Dean and Ayesha Sherzai, authors of The Alzheimer’s Solution for an even greater benefit.
A recent New York Times Article cites research evidencing steadily reduced rates of depression and cardiovascular disease as fitness in middle age increased. “Compared with those in the lowest fitness category, people in the highest were 16 percent less likely to have depression, 61 percent less likely to have cardiovascular illness without depression, and 56 percent less likely to die from cardiovascular disease after becoming depressed.”
Where to start? Consider strength training.
While “the aging process leads to distinct muscle mass and strength loss” as stated in research referenced in The Muscles, Ligaments and Tendons Journal , research out of Tufts University shows numerous benefits to strength training, including:
- Arthritis Relief
- Restoration of Balance and Reduction of Falls
- Strengthening of Bone
- Proper Weight Maintenance
- Improved Glucose Control
- Healthy State of Mind
- Sleep Improvement
- Healthy Heart Tissue
There are so many fun and adaptable ways to incorporate resistance and strength training into your routine – not just the typical weight lifting! Ask your doctor if strength training is right for you. It’s never too early or too late to start