Get stronger!

Have you noticed that as we age, we can eat the same amount but we begin to gain weight? One reason for this is that our bodies slowly lose muscle mass as we grow older. And since muscle burns more calories than fat tissue does, less muscle means a lower resting metabolism. Isn't that a bummer?

But fortunately there's a way to regain some muscle mass – weight lifting. I'm not talking about bench-pressing 250 pounds. I mean lifting smaller weights for more repetitions to help tone and build muscle. This kind of weight training, also called resistance training, has many health benefits. Lifting weights can:

Increase your flexibility
Improve your balance
Help you maintain a healthy weight
Strengthen your bones
Help you sleep better
That's just a few of the general benefits – there are many more.

For information on how to begin resistance training, check the website called "Growing Stronger: Strength Training for Older Adults."
Here's the link: http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/physical/growing_stronger/

The website provides all the info you need- including sample exercises with instructions and cute cartoons that actually show you how to lift the weights. You can do the exercises at home without spending money on a gym membership. All you need to purchase are some small weights. As always, you should check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.