Aging doesn’t have to mean a decline in health or vitality. In fact, the right approach to exercise and nutrition can help you not only maintain but enhance your physical capabilities. One of the keys to aging well is focusing on the health of your bones, which play a crucial role in overall well-being. Strong bones are essential for stability, balance, and mobility, but they also contribute to health in ways you might not expect.
The Power of Bone-Stimulating Exercises
Bones are living tissue that respond to stress by becoming stronger. As we age, activities that involve agility and light-impact movements, such as jumping, are incredibly effective for stimulating bone growth. These movements send signals to your bones to rebuild and fortify themselves, reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Including exercises that improve balance and coordination further protects against falls, ensuring that you stay active and independent. Agility drills, gentle plyometric exercises, and weight-bearing activities are excellent choices for improving bone density and stability. By engaging in these types of movements regularly, you provide the stimulus your bones need to remain resilient.
The Hormonal Role of Bones
Did you know your bones are not just structural support for your body? They also play a vital role in your health by producing essential hormones. For instance, bones release osteocalcin, a hormone that influences energy metabolism, insulin regulation, and even cognitive function. Keeping your bones healthy ensures that these critical processes continue to function optimally, contributing to your overall vitality.
Nutrition for Stronger Bones
The right nutrition is a cornerstone of bone health. Ensure your diet includes adequate calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone mineralization. Foods like dairy products, leafy green vegetables, nuts, and fortified cereals are excellent sources. Additionally, protein-rich foods support muscle strength, which works in tandem with your bones to maintain balance and stability.
Start Your Journey to Better Bone Health
If you’re ready to take the next step toward reclaiming your vitality and building better bones, consider enrolling in our Better Bones and Balance Class. Taught by Mana Shintani, this class has been a tremendous success at Active Wellness Center Kruse Woods, helping participants improve their balance, agility, and bone strength through targeted exercises. Mana’s expertise and engaging instruction make it easy to stay motivated and see results. The program has already started for the Winter 2025 season, but members are welcome to try out a class or wait until the next session begins.
To learn more about the Better Bones and Balance program and find the best time for you to start, click here or contact Mana Shintani today!
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Gerard Brennen
*Written by Gerard Brennen, General Manager at Active Wellness Center Kruse Woods.
Team Active content is not medical advice; it’s inspiration to LIVE ACTIVELY. Operating five Active Wellness Centers in California and Oregon, we strategically partner with hospital systems like Providence in Petaluma and Napa, California as well as Lake Oswego and Hillsboro, Oregon. Active Wellness Center at NorthBay Health is powered by NorthBay Health in Vacaville, California.
Active’s strategic healthcare partnerships demonstrate our commitment to supporting healthy lifestyles in the communities we serve. Our community health clubs and gyms provide motivating fitness, weight loss, strength-training, medical fitness, aquatics and swim lessons, youth fitness and childcare programs, and group fitness including yoga, Zumba®, barre, Pilates, dance and cycling.
Check the Active Wellness Center blog often for more healthy lifestyle tips and resources to support your active lifestyle! Click here for a free guest pass to your local Active Wellness Center. *Active Wellness Center’s program and facility offerings may vary by location.