Los Angeles Times: Strength Training May Be the Key to Longevity

The Los Angeles Times recently interviewed Martha Gulati, MD, director of Preventive Cardiology in the Department of Cardiology in the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai, about the benefits of strength training for older adults.

Exercises that work the muscles help build bone mass, improve balance, reduce joint stiffness, lower blood pressure and boost metabolism.

Gulati told the Los Angeles Times strength training can include lifting weights as well as yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi and using the body’s own weight—doing pushups, lunges and planks—to build muscle.

Using resistance bands is another way to increase resistance over time, she said, explaining that “it may not feel like you’re lifting a heavy weight, but they are tough. Even people with joint problems can do that.”

Gulati told the Los Angeles Times building muscle mass is especially important for older adults because muscle loss occurs naturally with aging and increases rapidly after 60.

“Falls can be catastrophic as we age and building our muscle mass is really important,” she said. “It’s not about becoming a bodybuilder, it’s about preserving your health. Just to be healthy and strong is a beautiful thing.”

Strength training also can reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease in women, according to a recent study Gulati led.

She told the Los Angeles Times older adults should discuss weight training with their doctor—especially if they are new to it, haven’t exercised recently or have a heart condition.

Click here to read the complete article from the Los Angeles Times.