Ways Exercise Can Improve Your Joint Health

As we get older our joints become less pliable and are more prone to conditions such as stiffness, pain and arthritis-type symptoms. Exercising has an effect on overall joint health and endurance for a variety of reasons. A joint consists of an outer shell that encapsulates the tendons, cartilage and bone. Maintaining strong joints is necessary for sustaining optimal bodily movement.

Weight Training

• Building muscle mass is important for joint health because if the muscles that surround joints become weak there will be limited mobility in the joint. Use light weight or isometric exercises to ensure the muscles that support the joints are strong.

Arthritis

• Exercise may reduce symptoms of arthritis in the joints. According to CBCnews.ca, a study conducted in Australia over a three-year period involved women in their 70's who exercised at least 75 minutes weekly. These women reported fewer arthritis symptoms than the control group. Performing exercises like swimming and low-impact aerobics will enhance joint health.

Weight Loss

• Extra weight puts more pressure on the joints and causes more rapid deterioration of the tissue within and around the joints, especially the knees. Exercising helps increase weight loss, which in turn takes the burden off the joints to carry the excess mass. Exercises that burn fat such as brisk walking can help promote healthy joints.

Stretching

• Stretching helps release the tendons that surround the joint and allow for increased movement. When the tendons are flexible, it allows the joints to move more freely. Stretching exercises such as yoga, pilates, and tai-chi can help promote joint health.

Endurance

• By doing cross-training exercises such as biking, walking, swimming, tennis and other sports, joints are continuously working and building endurance to injury. As long as these exercises are performed correctly, they can increase joint health.

Balance

• Ligaments stabilize the joints and if they are weak, it is difficult to maintain balance. By doing strength training with weights or isometrics you will increase the strength and stability of the ligaments that contribute to overall body health.

Joint Health

• Improving joint health through exercise is possible by including weight bearing, aerobic and stretching exercises in your daily routine. It is important to take care of your joints to maintain optimal physical bodily functions.