Walking is an ideal form of exercise for people who suffer from osteoporosis
| Nov 2, 2018, 13:17 IST
Osteoporosis is a disease affecting one in four women and one in eight men over the age of 50 that causes chronic loss of bone density and the deterioration of bone tissue. New Brock research has found that walking isn't only the most preferred form of physical activity of people who have the disease, but it also happens to be the most ideal form of exercise for people who suffer from osteoporosis.
"Research has clearly demonstrated that for people who live with osteoporosis, physical activity confers a host of benefits," says Brock University Kinesiology Professor Philip Wilson. Among the benefits that walking offers are weight loss, improved strength and a better quality of life. "There's also a substantial level of bone integrity when combined with the right medications," adds Wilson. From the research conducted, "More than 60 percent of both men and women said walking was their No. 1 activity," says Wilson. "Gardening and yard work were done by about 35 to 45 percent of respondents, depending on whether they were male or female, and 22 to 23 percent identified home-based exercises. Then the numbers drop off really dramatically," he adds.
Walking has many benefits. It is a low-budget activity and can be done at any time. It also does not require specialised equipment or space; and is typically a low-impact form of exercise.
"Research has clearly demonstrated that for people who live with osteoporosis, physical activity confers a host of benefits," says Brock University Kinesiology Professor Philip Wilson. Among the benefits that walking offers are weight loss, improved strength and a better quality of life. "There's also a substantial level of bone integrity when combined with the right medications," adds Wilson. From the research conducted, "More than 60 percent of both men and women said walking was their No. 1 activity," says Wilson. "Gardening and yard work were done by about 35 to 45 percent of respondents, depending on whether they were male or female, and 22 to 23 percent identified home-based exercises. Then the numbers drop off really dramatically," he adds.
Walking has many benefits. It is a low-budget activity and can be done at any time. It also does not require specialised equipment or space; and is typically a low-impact form of exercise.