What does it mean to have muscle?
As kids, we probably think of athletes and superheroes.
In our 20s, we might associate muscle with lots of weightlifting in the gym and young men with bulging physiques.
But later in life, we need to realize that muscle means more than big biceps.
We need muscle to perform all kinds of tasks – even standing up off the couch requires muscle. It’s that basic to our everyday lives and function.
Muscle means life – ordinary, simple life for everyone. And we start losing it in our 30s, which can lead to all kinds of trouble if we don’t do something about it. And that “something” is resistance training – also known as weightlifting or strength training.
Have You Heard of Sarcopenia?
There’s even a medical term for this losing muscle mass: sarcopenia. The condition is commonly associated with aging, but it is not inevitable. You can prevent it and even reverse with regular physical activity.
You know the stereotypes about being old and frail.
And you might have noticed that you struggle more to, say, bring in the groceries lately or walk up a flight of stairs.
Trust me, this is common but preventable and treatable with regular resistance exercise and proper nutrition.
“Sarcopenia can be considered for muscle what osteoporosis is to bone,” said Dr. John E. Morley, St. Louis University School of Medicine, in the journal Family Practice.
Dr. Jeremy Walston said in the National Institutes of Health, “Sarcopenia is one of the most important causes of functional decline and loss of independence in older adults.”
If you’re entering midlife or if you’re already more experienced, talk to your doctor about sarcopenia. She should tell you about resistance training to prevent issues linked to sarcopenia including weakness, increased risk of falling, increased likelihood of fractures, insulin resistance and obesity.
Being inactive contributes to sarcopenia – which then contributes to inactivity.
Break the Cycle
We’ve all heard the old adage, “Use it or lose it,” right? It’s true when it comes to muscle and aging bodies. If you don’t use your muscle, you will lose it. If you use it, you’ll keep it – and all the functional ability and strength that come with it.
Doctors have known for decades that exercise can reverse muscle loss due to sarcopenia. But it still hasn’t filtered down into our general awareness, where “muscle” still means Arnold Schwarzenegger and Mr. Olympia.
By using resistance bands, body weight or free weights, we can increase muscle strength, size, and endurance.
That means you move better, feel better and sleep better. For starters.
And… IT DOES NOT MEAN you will get huge muscles!
Book your consultation today so we can talk about increasing your strength and muscle, I can answer your questions, and get you going with a safe, fun, and effective program that will get you to reach your goals asap.
It doesn’t take much to start seeing important results. The most important thing is to start... And then keep moving...
Be kind to yourself and others! See you next time,
Dr. Loïse
Are you in your sixties and want to get tips and insights on how to live a long and happy life? Are you a milennial or Gen Xer witnessing your parents’s journey and wishing for them to thrive? Curious about the secrets to a contented life? If so, this newsletter is for you. Subscribe here if you find the content helpful — I truly appreciate it! Thank you!