Exercise and Your Bones — Feel Healthy with Dr. Scott Lear

Exercise and Your Bones: Why It Matters

Exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining strong and healthy bones at any age. Just like muscles, bones respond to physical activity by becoming stronger. This is particularly important for preventing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of fractures as you age.

How Exercise Helps Your Bones

1. Increases Bone Density – Weight-bearing and resistance exercises stimulate bone growth and slow bone loss.
2. Improves Balance & Coordination – Reduces the risk of falls and fractures.
3. Strengthens Muscles – Stronger muscles provide better support for bones.
4. Enhances Joint Flexibility – Helps prevent stiffness and injury.

Best Types of Exercises for Bone Health

1. Weight-Bearing Exercises

These activities force you to work against gravity, which stimulates bone growth. Examples include:

• Walking, jogging, or hiking
• Dancing
• Tennis or pickleball
• Stair climbing

2. Resistance Training

Lifting weights or using resistance bands helps increase bone strength.

• Bodyweight exercises (push-ups, squats)
• Dumbbells or resistance bands
• Machines at the gym

3. Flexibility & Balance Exercises

These help prevent falls and injuries.

• Yoga
• Tai Chi
• Stretching exercises

Tips for Safe Exercise

• Start Slowly: If you’re new to exercise, begin with light activities and increase gradually.
• Use Proper Form: Avoid injuries by ensuring proper technique.
• Stay Consistent: Aim for at least 30 minutes of bone-strengthening activities most days of the week.
• Include Calcium & Vitamin D: Exercise works best when paired with a bone-healthy diet.

Who Should Exercise for Bone Health?

• Children & Teens: Helps build strong bones for life.
• Adults: Maintains bone mass and prevents early loss.
• Seniors & Those with Osteoporosis: Reduces the risk of fractures and improves mobility.

Bottom Line: Regular exercise is one of the best ways to keep your bones strong and reduce the risk of fractures. No matter your age, it’s never too late to start moving!

Bone health is an important but often overlooked aspect of our body’s overall wellness. Many of us think bones are inert, but they’re living organs that are continually remodelling. How active you are and the type of exercise you get can affect how strong your bones are. Likewise, if you don’t’ get enough activity, your […]

Exercise and Your Bones — Feel Healthy with Dr. Scott Lear

Facts About Bone Density Tests

https://stimulife.wordpress.com/2020/03/18/facts-about-bone-density-tests/