Physical activity improves bodily functions

Regular physical activity strengthens bones and muscles, improves the ability to
carry out daily activities, and prevents falls

Healthy bones, healthy joints and strong muscles are essential to remaining physically
active and avoid losing the ability to do everyday activities such as climbing
stairs or grocery shopping. Physical inactivity contributes to the frailty experienced
by the elderly that leads to falls, injuries such as hip fracture, and inability to lead a
normal self-sufficient life. Research shows that doing aerobic, muscle-strengthening,
and bone-strengthening physical activity of at least a moderately-intense level
can slow the loss of bone density that comes with age. The recommended 150 to
300 minutes per week of at least moderate-intensity aerobic activity lowers the risk
of hip and other fractures. Muscle-strengthening activities help increase or maintain
muscle mass and strength.

Although it may be counter-intuitive, because it may seem that damaged joints
would only improve with rest, regular physical activity helps improve arthritis and
other conditions affecting the joints. Research shows that 130 to 150 minutes a
week of moderate-intensity, low-impact aerobic activity can improve pain management,
ability to carry out everyday tasks, and quality of life.

This blog presents opinions and ideas and is intended to provide helpful general information. I am not engaged in rendering advice or services to the individual reader. The ideas, procedures and suggestions in that are presented are not in any way a substitute for the advice and care of the reader’s own physician or other medical professional based on the reader’s own individual conditions, symptoms or concerns. If the reader needs personal medical, health, dietary, exercise or other assistance or advice the reader should consult a physician and/or other qualified health professionals. The author specifically disclaims all responsibility for any injury, damage or loss that the reader may incur as a direct or indirect consequence of following any directions or suggestions given in this blog or participating in any programs described in this blog or in the book, The Building Blocks of Health––How to Optimize Your Health with a Lifestyle Checklist (available in print or downloaded at Amazon, Apple, Barnes and Noble and elsewhere). Copyright 2021 by J. Joseph Speidel.