Some of these are highlighted below. As people age, poor balance and flexibility contribute to falls and broken bones. Strengthening exercises, when done properly and through the full range of motion, increase a person's flexibility and balance, which decrease the likelihood and severity of falls. One study in New Zealand in women 80 years and older showed a 40 percent reduction in falls with a simple strength and balance training program. Bone Strengthening Post-menopausal women can lose one to two percent of bone mass annually.
Men can also develop dangerously weak bones as well.
Strength training actually restores bone and reduces the risk of fractures. It also improves balance and flexibility, which reduces the risk of falls as well as the severity of falls if they do occur. The stronger a person is, the more likely she is to move around. Studies of several different groups including nursing home residents, AIDS patients and older women have shown that increased strength leads to spontaneous increases in physical activity. High energy levels also help improve and maintain mental health.