Strength Training is an important part of fitness for building and maintaining both muscle and bone mass as we age. It also improves balance and enables us to keep a more active, self-reliant lifestyle. Personally, I have included strength training in my workout routine since 1979, utilizing dumbbells and body weight exercises. I vary my routine daily to ensure complete body fitness.
Last week, my grandson was injured in his car seat due to an auto accident, and placed in a spica body cast from his ankles to his armpits. So his normal weight of 20 pounds was suddenly at least 30 pounds, and in a shape that makes carrying difficult. Because of his discomfort in the cast, he was happiest being held and carried constantly.
Yesterday, I babysat him for nine hours while his parents replaced their totaled vehicle, and went for their own therapy treatments. I could not have lasted those nine hours, without my workouts! After this experience, I was so grateful that I was physically able to carry and hold him as he needed because of my strength training.
For more information on all aspects of health including the importance of strength training, I recommend Lifelong Health: Achieving Optimum Well-Being at Any Age, taught by Professor Anthony A. Goodman, M.D., available below through The Great Courses.
