Bone Density

Bone density diminishes the older we get unless we do something to keep stress on the bones. Isometrics has been medically proven to increase bone density faster and more effectively than weight lifting exercises. For many seniors, those with balance or other physical issues, it can be very hard to pursue an effective weight lifting program. Not only is it more dangerous for seniors to lift heavy weights or operate many of the machines found in most commercial gyms, it’s often hard to get to the gym.

Isometric exercises can be performed in the privacy of your own home, with no equipment and no risk of injury. Even seniors who are wheelchair bound, or otherwise immobile, or limited to sitting only can do isometric exercises. A study at Tufts University found postmenopausal women ages 50 to 70 were able to increase bone density through regular isometric exercise.

It is well understood that bones respond and grow due to the stresses put upon it. Wolf’s Law dictates as larger loads are placed on the bone, the body’s response is to lay down new and stronger bone. The implications of this on patients with osteoporosis are obvious. The denser and higher quality bone tissue that is laid down will decrease the likelihood of a break or fracture. Quality of life and health can significantly improve for individuals with weaker bone tissue. As seen from the results above, a 300% increase in leg strength in 12 sessions can create a major improvement in activities of daily living and simple tasks, such as walking up and down stairs. The patients over 70 years old are not typically people who would go to the gym to exercise, but with short lifting times and quick results, they were willing to take the steps to better health. The process of the lifting style makes it easy, and the results make it motivating.