Lift Weights! Yes, You
Weight lifting isn't exactly aerobic activity, but it's an important part of any fitness routine. Lifting weights is great for any adult. It builds bone mass and can reverse osteoporosis. It increases muscle tone and helps your body to burn more calories because the more muscle you have, the more calories you burn during the aerobic portion of your workout.
Stronger muscles means everyday efforts, from lifting grocery bags and small children to carrying that box of office supplies into the supply room, are easier. You'll feel better, your posture will improve, and your body will look firmer and shapelier.
When your day has been more stressful than usual, don't exercise beyond your limit. Focus on long walks in the fresh air, practice yoga or tai chi, or take a leisurely bike ride. Let your workout be gentle and meditative. Even if you know you need to get in shape, don't worry about it. When you get your severe stress under control, you can step up the pace.
Lift weights no more than every other day (or every day, but alternating which muscles you work). To find a good plan, talk to your health club trainer, find a good book on weight lifting that addresses your personal goals (toning or building), or subscribe to a magazine, such as Shape, that keeps track of the latest news and research on weight lifting and provides different routines with detailed explanations on technique and benefits.
At about age 35, people start to lose bone mass; with that loss of bone mass comes a greater susceptibility to fractures. Weight lifting can counteract bone loss. It's never too late to start. As soon as you begin a regular program of weight lifting, your bones start getting stronger. What an easy way to ward off a broken bone!
