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Everyone
has heard the saying that "metabolism slows with age". This
saying can become true if we choose to let it. However, metabolism does
not have to slow with age. The main mechanism behind this metabolic slow
down is a loss in muscle mass known as sarcopinea. Research estimates
that from the age of 25 people lose ½ pound of muscle mass and gain 1
pound of fat mass each year. Muscle, being a very active tissue,
requires approximately 35 calories per pound per day. Hence a loss of
muscle mass can result in a significant slowing of the metabolism.
Osteoporosis
is a metabolic bone disease characterized by the loss of bone often
resulting in fractures and postural misalignments. Through media
attention and health education, osteoporosis has been brought to the
forefront of aging degenerative diseases. With the current debate on
post-menopausal hormone therapy, osteoporosis has become an even greater
concern.
Though
it is hard to determine whether age itself or heart related disease are
responsible for the changes seen in the cardiorespiratory system,
evidence strongly suggests that a decrease in function can be prolonged
up to age 85 with regular physical activity. Prolonging
cardiorespiratory function allows adults to perform all the activities
they love at a similar pace to that which they are accustomed. It also
permits for these activities to be carried out for lengthy periods of
time. It is not unheard of that active older adults tire out people half
their age.
The
Good News...
For
those age fifty-five and beyond, a Personal Training program may be the right choice for you. If you would like to remain
active, or if you need to regain the strength and stamina, necessary to
lead an active life, then exercise and a well balanced diet are the keys.
The fruition of a well designed Personal Training program lies in the
Trainers ability to help you combat muscle loss thereby increasing metabolic
processes, enhancing bone growth, increasing growth hormone production,
and improving functionality.
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