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Why do YOU exercise?
There are many reasons why we exercise. These may include trying to lose weight, controlling or lowering high cholesterol, to live longer; and maybe just because it makes us feel better.
One very important benefit of working out is the effect is has on your bones. Bones are living tissue that becomes stronger with exercise. Just the same, without exercise they will weaken. There are two types of exercise that help strengthen bones. They are Weight Bearing Impact Exercises and Resistance and Strength Training Exercises.
Non-impact and non-weight bearing exercises such as swimming, biking, water aerobics, and stretching are excellent forms of exercise and very beneficial to the body as well. It is important to have a well-rounded balance of exercise incorporated into your routine, including the impact and strength training exercises listed above.
The Chasco Family YMCA in Round Rock is a full facility that will meet all of your workout needs. We have a beautiful fitness center and offer a wide range of group exercise classes, weight lifting classes, water classes, a flexible schedule for lap swimming, and a fun pool to exercise with your kids. Come check us out!
Weight bearing impact exercises are done in an upright position while working against gravity. They come in two forms: low and high impact. For those who are frail, have osteoporosis, or cant handle high impact, the best choice is low impact. Examples of low impact exercise include: walking, low impact aerobics, elliptical or stair-step machines. High impact exercises are for those not at risk and for those who can handle the more intense contact against gravity. High impact exercises include: running/jogging, jumping rope, high impact aerobics, tennis, stair climbing and dancing.
The other type of exercise to help strengthen bones is resistance and strength training. This includes activities where you move your body, a weight, or some other resistance, against gravity. Examples include: lifting weights, using weight machines, using elastic exercise bands and lifting your own body weight. Increasing muscle strength can decrease the risk of falls and broken bones.
Lauren Lacy
Fitness Coordinator
YMCA, Round Rock
Chasco Family YMCA
