How this NEW Method is Educating Physicians about exercise
This week, we had the pleasure of introducing local physicians from the Franciscan Skemp Clinic, now Mayo Clinic, to the science behind properly working out. It was eye opening to many of the physicians, many of whom were first introduced to this science behind how to properly work out.
Let's review what we've been taught to stay in shape.
- We've been taught that one needs to walk and do aerobic exercise every day for heart health. We've been taught to walk 10000 steps a day.
- We've been confused by the stereotype that weight lifting is only for movie stars, or that we will become big and bulky.
- We've accepted that having aches and pains, joint replacements, and diabetes is a fact of life.
Is what we've been taught working? Let's review our nation's health. Obesity rates are the leading cause of preventable death in the US. Joint replacement is going to triple by 2030, and repeat joint replacements is going to double by 2030. We spend $50 Billion on Fad diets every year, and 98% of them fail after 3-6 months.
One can argue that there is the 1% that are in great shape as they age. However, reality is that for the other 99%, what we've been taught to stay in shape is just not working.
What is the missing link?
Lean mass (muscle) is what burns those calories. And we lose 8% every decade over the age of 40, which means we become weaker, burn less calories, end up with muscle imbalances. Maintaining that healthy and strong Lean Mass is key.
A healthy and strong Lean mass has been shown as a key indicator of overall health, to fight off disease and maintain healthy bones and joints.
Why doesn't aerobic-only activity work? A book by Dr. Doug McGuff called Body By Science (2009) details how too much aerobic activity like walking 1) only burns calories when performing 2) can actually reduce critical lean mass over time, 3) is not sufficient to change the physiology. In other words, it does not improve that critical lean mass. In addition, if there any imbalances or weakness, this can accelerate joint wear and cause pain due to weakness.
To achieve healthier, stronger lean mass, one must stimulate the muscle through higher intensity via strength training. Mayo Clinic recommends strength training 2-3 times per week. The benefits are substantial. A British journal recently published a statistic that if one does not perform strength training, the cost of weakness becomes $3500 for every person, every year! That's an alarming statistic.
Why don't people lift weights? The most common reason people do not is that they don't know what to do and are afraid of injury.
The best way to become stronger is to perform strength training under guidance of a fitness professional. Seek out a facility where there's no intimidation or distractions. Seek out a place where they use the latest in technology to achieve the optimal your muscles can do, safely. Ensure the combine mobility exercises to get the body functioning correctly, cardiovascular training to support the strength training.
When done correctly with the latest technology, you will also be able to allow you to work out in a fraction of the time as you do elsewhere, giving you more time to do the things you enjoy without having to worry about your health and fitness.
By implementing the latest in strength training, you'll reap the health and wellness benefits enjoyed only by the few. You'll see increased stamina, bone density, energy, and feel younger. You'll be the model among your peers about what looking and feeling young should be!
