Even among active adults there is a loss of about 20 percent of their muscle mass between the ages of 40 and 60 years. Muscle loss, known as Sarcopenia, causes reduced metabolic rate, progressive fat accretion, decreased control of blood sugar and reduced quality of life.
Wayne Wescott (Quincy College, Massachusetts), in a review of the current literature, concluded that weight training increases lean mass and metabolic rate while decreasing body fat in middle- and older-aged adults.
Weight training was also found to improve physical performance, walking speed, quality of life, mental function and self-esteem. In addition it improves blood sugar regulation, blood fat levels, preserves bone density and lowers blood pressure. It may also reduce back pain and joint discomfort associated with arthritis.
Weight training is a key component in any wellness program, but especially for middle- and older-age adults.
Reference:
Current Sports Medicine Reports, 11: 209-216, 2012
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