with children etc. Our muscles serve as supporting structure for our skeleton and are the shock absorbers that allow us to balance ourselves so that we do not fall. They also act as cushions when we do fall so strong muscles translate into fewer accidents as we are better balanced.
We are aware that our muscles are responsible for all body movement and maintaining joint stability. The body’s total muscle mass peaks in the late 20’s and begins to decline steadily afterwards and we lose 300 -500 grams every year after that. This reduces our metabolic rate (the rate our body burns fuel) which means your body is less able to convert the food you eat into energy. As a result, more of the calories that you consume are turned into body fat and you may notice that you are getting more body fat and less firm muscle tissue. This will happen if you don’t do anything to stop this loss.
Like many of the physical aspects of aging, the decline in muscle mass can be slowed down or reversed with regular strength training exercise. If your goal is to lose weight (body fat), it is very difficult to do this by modifying your diet alone. A strength training program will greatly increase the speed of your weight loss and can virtually double the effectiveness of any weight loss program you are on.
If the idea of strength training is new to you, make sure you seek the help of a fitness professional at your local gym or fitness center to help set up your program and teach you correct exercise technique. This is important so you are assured of getting maximum results in the shortest possible time.
If gaining strength like a 21 year old isn’t enough motivation to get started right away, here is a short list of just some of the