Any 50+ do resistance training?-How?

[Pie4me]

Hey friends-

I was wondering if any of you do resistance training?

I know it is important to do some weight training,
is resistance training the same as weight?

I walk on my tread mill daily but don't really have
any weights and don't know much about resistance tr.

What kind of equipment does it take?

It's not cardio is it?

Thanks for any input!

[ttdriver]

Hi Pie,

According to Wikipedia, resistance training is:

Resistance training is a form of strength training in which each effort is performed against a specific opposing force generated by resistance (i.e. resistance to being pushed, squeezed, stretched or bent). Exercises are isotonic if a body part is moving against the force. Exercises are isometric if a body part is holding still against the force. Resistance exercise is used to develop the strength and size of skeletal muscles. Properly performed, resistance training can provide significant functional benefits and improvement in overall health and well-being.

The goal of resistance training, according to the American Sports Medicine Institute (ASMI), is to "gradually and progressively overload the musculoskeletal system so it gets stronger." Research shows that regular resistance training will strengthen and tone muscles and increase bone mass. Resistance training should not be confused with weightlifting, powerlifting or bodybuilding, which are competitive sports involving different types of strength training with non-elastic forces such as gravity (weight training or plyometrics) an immovable resistance (isometrics, usually the body's own muscles or a structural feature such as a doorframe). Full range of motion is important in resistance training because muscle overload occurs only at the specific joint angles where the muscle is worked.

Resistance training can be performed using various types of exercise equipment or:

• Resistance bands
• Exercise machines
• Swimming machines

The combination of resistance training and cardio will tone and reshape your body! Its a win/win!!

I personally like to use dumbbells, which you can get at Walmart very inexpensively. Start with lighter weights and gradually increase. You'll love the results, guaranteed!

Betty

[pamelainaustin]

Pie4me,

Resistance training and weight training are basically the same. I would recommend you Google Joyce Vedral and visit her website. She has a variety of books, videos and DVD's that are great for learning about weight training, especially for women who (usually) don't want to build huge muscles. All you need is a few dumbells (2, 5 and 8 pounds) to start. She gives really clear and detailed instructions.

I have one of her books called "Bottoms Up" which is a killer workout. I did it regularly for about 4 months a few years back and the results I saw were amazing. The added bonus of building muscle is that you fat burning increases!

Pam