In a recent article in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons September, 2014 the authors Bryan Bobat, M.D. et al discussed decades of research looking at the aging process and the influence of improved fitness on that aging process. It has been well-documented that individuals participating in high levels of physical activity have better bone density, lower risk of fracture, increased muscle mass and more flexibility in their tendons and ligaments. It has also been shown that exercise will lead to improved volume or thickness of cartilage covering the ends of our bones. The authors recommended that a combination of physical fitness be utilized by aging individuals. This includes resistance training or weight lifting, endurance training or some type of cardiac fitness such as running, fast walking, biking and Stairmaster, etcetera. In addition to weight training and endurance training, flexibility and balance exercises are important to enhance function. The combination of increasing physical activity and managing weight is critically important to older adults because they are the fastest growing and least active age group in the United States. It has been well documented that age related deterioration of muscle and strength, and secondary chronic medical problems, can be improved by participation in a program to increase activity. It has also been document that people who are physically fit exhibit lower rates of anxiety and depression compared to sedentary individuals. In summary, improving our activity level and improving our physical fitness will have multiple positive benefits on our overall health.
