In this case, the \u201cit\u201d is muscle strength and mass and the best way to use it is consistent weight and resistance training aimed at building strength and improving mobility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cOne of the major issues for the senior community are falls,\u201d Carr says. \u201cFalls happen not only because of lack of balance, but also lack of strength in the hips and legs as we age. Muscle fibers have to be engaged regularly to allow for the flow of red blood cells that help increase the strength of those fibers. Without it, they start to atrophy and lose their ability to engage, pull and stretch. Strength is not just for aesthetics It\u2019s for quality of life and the ability to operate more safely.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Resistance exercises, particularly those involving weight-bearing activities, also stimulate bone growth and increase bone density, both of which are crucial in preventing osteoporosis and fractures. They also support weight management and metabolic health. Increased muscle mass can boost metabolism and help prevent age-related weight gain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Carr helped his mother, Jacqueline McDougald, 61, begin a weight training regimen six months ago. Not only does she feel stronger and more agile, but she\u2019s also lost 20 pounds and four dress sizes, slimming down from a size 14 to 10.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI was worried that my bones were getting weak, and my knees were hurting,\u201d McDougald says about asking Carr for advice. She works out three days a week and started small with just 10 minutes of easy exercises that included wall push ups and repeatedly sitting down in a chair and standing up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI feel a lot better,\u201d McDougald says. \u201cI sleep better at night, and I don\u2019t have the leg cramps I used to, because I\u2019m working those muscles that I didn\u2019t before.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Both Carr and McDougald emphasize that it\u2019s okay to start small. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cYou don\u2019t have to jump right into a gym and try to lift weights,\u201d Carr says. \u201cStart with using your body weight, then add resistance as you start to feel stronger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Beyond physical benefits, weight training also has been linked to improved cognitive function, enhanced mood and reduced risk of depression. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Ray](\"https:\/\/phlexon-dev.com\/senior\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Ray-Car-with-client-tshirt.jpg\")
This is 65! <\/h1>\n\n\n\n
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