Strength Training Products For Seniors

By Terry Lane

How many seniors would think that strength training is more important now than when they were in their 20's? If they haven't yet figured it out, they should. Every decade past the age of 25 men and women begin to lose muscle mass. With osteoporosis knocking on the aging population one would think to take a closer look at what are the ways to combat this affliction. It's never to late in life to start a strength training program. Many senior centers have personal trainers to help those who have neglected their bodies.

Studies have shown that the muscle fiber of those in their seventies are similar to those in their twenties. So there is hope to those frail seniors who are and have been for many years out of shape. Building up a senior's muscle mass helps cut down of injuries due to falls. Aging effects a person's balance and flexibility. Stamina wanes. And the muscles surrounding joints become stiff. Pilates is a gentle form of exercise that helps those of any age gain strength in the joint areas as well as throughout the entire body.

Physical therapists have used Pilates as a rehabilitation tool. They have quickly learned the benefits of Pilates exercises helps the body recover from injury. In fact Pilates exercises were first created during World War One by the man the exercise is named after - Joseph Pilates. He first used his exercises on injured soldiers. Those wounded soldiers that worked with him regained their strength faster. Pilates was a German nurse and had access to these soldiers and through his creativity developed a series of exercises that are still used to this day.

It all started will Joe Pilates attaching metal springs to hospital beds. Thus the Pilates exercise equipment know today as a Reformer. If wounded soldiers could help quicker with his exercises than those who are out of shape would benefit just as much. Joe knew that his exercises helped develop flexibility in joints and surrounding tissues. Today certified Pilates instructors are helping their clients that are de-conditioned too. Even arthritis sufferers are seeing the advantages of Pilates exercises. They find that they develop a fuller range of motion in their joints which helps them improve their social life, their state of mind and their overall health.

Pilates equipment has evolved since Joe first attached springs to hospital beds. Equipment such as the Cadillac, Chair and Reformer are mainstays in Pilates studios. Now you can buy in online fitness stores smaller related equipment like the Pilates ring, mats and instruction DVDs. Pilates makes a great addition to any fitness program. It may be the best core conditioning exercise anyone can do. Resistance bands are another type of fitness equipment that is used in Pilates studios. These inexpensive and versatile tools come in various resistance and are a great alternative to heavy weights.

Pilates rehabilitation practice by physical therapists see the exercises help their patients improve their muscle and joint strength after suffering an injury. Since Pilates exercises are gentle on joints it won't over-stress the body any more. Seniors are especially vulnerable to injuries due to falls. Pilates is preventive medicine. Keeping the body strong today will help the body stay injury free tomorrow. And staying free from injuries allows a senior to become more active in sports related activities such as golf and tennis. What senior doesn't want a more fulfilling lifestyle?

It is important to note that certified Pilates instructors are not medically qualified to make a diagnosis. It is best to seek out sound medical advise first. Pilates instructors need to work in conjunction with chiropractors, medical professionals and physical therapists in working up the best plan for a client. Pilates exercises is a total body workout that is suitable for all ages and abilities. Make it part of your fitness goals for long term health. - 32527

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