Exercise 4 Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis Australia recommends a structured exercise program as part of the essential management of osteoporosis. This is because regular physical activity and exercise plays an important role in maintaining and improving bone density for healthy bones. We have seen many people with osteoporosis at 4 Life Exercise Physiology and have seen great results with our exercise programs.
The key to improving osteoporosis through exercise is that it needs to be regular and ongoing. We recommend attending at least 2 class sessions per week in addition to performing other general exercise at least a further 2 days per week (such as brisk walking, stair climbing, etc). If classes are not for you, we can also provide home based exercise programs.
Not all exercises are equal when it comes to osteoporosis
The ability of an exercise to build bone, its osteogenic capacity, depends on the specific way that stress is applied to the bone during the exercise. As such seeking professional advice on the exercises that will help your osteoporosis is crucial.
Get the most out of your exercise program by adhering to the following rules of exercise for osteoporosis:
- Exercise must be regular so attend 2 classes per week, in addition to performing other exercises at least a further 2 days per week (such as brisk walking, stair climbing, etc).
- Exercise must be progressed over time by the Exercise Physiologist.
- Progressions in the degree of difficulty, such as amount of weight used or repetitions completed, must increase over time.
- Exercise routine should vary as this is more beneficial than repetition.
- Lifting weights quickly is more effective than lifting them slowly; however this should always be supervised to ensure it is undertaken in a safe way.
- Balance Exercises are crucial to reduce the risk of falling which could result in a bone fracture with osteoporosis.
A referral is not necessary to join our osteoporosis programs, so call us on 9583 5200 to make an appointment today.
