It’s a common misconception that training to get stronger is only for youths and athletes. Strength is an attribute that benefits all individuals in all walks of life. So why does the notion exist that as we age beyond our youth, we should simply abandon the pursuit of strength?
I would argue that there are zero situations wherein it is less advantageous to be stronger. As we age, it is that much more important to keep our bodies strong and resilient in order to prepare for the activities we engage in.
Strength is what allows you to pick your kids up to place the star at the top of the Christmas tree. It’s what permits carrying in as many grocery bags as possible in a single trip. Strength is what allows an individual to rise from a chair or climb a set of stairs.
Building strength is a long-term process that requires active participation and commitment on the part of the individual. Putting in that work, however, is what will act to prolong the health and longevity of our bodies as we age. It is a major key to preventing falls, maintaining participation in daily activities, and ensures that the body remains resilient throughout our lifetime.
Everyone may have different reasons for wanting to get stronger and move better, and anyone who wants to do so will have different contextual factors that require navigation to ensure a successful plan. Physiotherapists are well-equipped to help guide clients towards the pursuit of strength. The education and training they undergo facilitates the ability to create strong client-centered plans to meet someone where they are at, and take them to where they want to be.
At UP Rehab, our objective is to help everyone strive towards their goals. We look forward to meeting with individuals in our community in efforts to help foster personal success in the new year!
Cheers, Dan
UP Rehab Team