Question:
Mom has Osteoporosis.So, I want her to start weightlifting. But, what about
aerobic exercise? Is cardio necessary, if she keeps up an aggressive
weightlifting routine? She's pretty active in general.
Answer:For osteoporosis, cardio is not necessary.For general health, it is.
Depending on the type of cardio, it may be helpful as an
adjunct to weight training. However, to reap benefits for bone health,
it should be some type of impact exercise. Bike, elliptical trainer,
most of the gym cardio equipment won't impart benefits for bone health,
but running and even, yes, the dreaded aerobic classes.
She should clear with her GP before she starts such a program. If there
are any spinal issues, there's a thin line between beneficial and
detrimental effects of impact exercise on the spine.
Weight training is also good, of course, especially if using free
weights. But realize that there's more to osteoporosis than just
exercise. The primary factors are hormones and diet. Exercise will not
substitute for a poor diet or homone deficiency. The research supports
that hands down.
