What Are the Benefits of Weight Training on Bone Density?

Bone density describes how thick or strong your bones are. World Health Organization figures show that a bone density of plus or minus one of that of the young adult mean is what is considered normal. Weight training, a form of strength training, builds stronger and denser bones by making muscle stress the bone, which in turn generates more bone. Choose from body weight training, free weight training, resistance tubing or training on a weight machine.

• Weight training protects against bone loss and also helps in building new bone, which helps guard against osteoporosis. Hips and backs are most affected by bone loss and hence at risk from osteoporosis so ensure your weight training targets these areas first.

• Another benefit of weight training in building bone density is that the stronger bones that result will ward against other diseases, such as Paget's disease and osteogenesis imperfecta. Paget's disease is characterized by skeletal deformities and fractures whereas osteogenesis imperfecta is a genetic disorder resulting in bones that break easily.

• Overall health and quality of life is vastly improved by a healthy skeletal system. Our organs are protected from injury by strong bones, and they provide the framework for our muscles. The stronger muscles you build through weight training aids better coordination, resulting in fewer falls.