Loss of Muscle Mass as We Age
Strength training is an important work out routine element. After middle age, adults lose, on average, about 3% of muscle strength each year. This condition is known as sarcopenia. The loss of muscle mass can eventually limit a person’s ability to perform many routine activities, and can reduce life expectancy.
A healthy diet and regular exercise can reverse sarocenia, resulting in a longer lifespan and better quality of life. All types of exercise are beneficial, but some more than others.
Strength Training Fights Muscle Mass Loss
Strength training is the most direct way to battle sarocenia. Exercises include weightlifting, pulling against resistance bands or moving part of the body against gravity.
Strength training exercises create tension on your muscle fibers, which activate growth signals, leading to increased strength, and increased growth-promoting hormone activity. These factors combine to cause muscle cells to grow and repair themselves, both by making new proteins, and by turning on special muscle stem cells that reinforce existing muscle.
Sampling of Representative Strength Training Products and Equipment
Below is a sampling of strength training products and equipment. Click on the links to find out more information, see other products selections, and if you like, to make a purchase from one of our providers.