Finding the Optimal Resistance Training Intensity For Your Bones

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that can result in fractures, disability and an increased risk of premature death. Exercise is recommended for fall and fracture prevention, but health care professionals often recommend walking or lower intensity community exercise classes, which may not be effective for building bone. Further, individuals with osteoporosis are often told to avoid lifting or moving in certain ways, which creates fear and activity avoidance. Conversely, research suggests that to stimulate bone, you need higher loads on bone, with either higher intensity resistance training or impact exercise - the types of things people with low bone mass are told to avoid. Our study will examine different types of exercise intensity and how they translate to building bone in people with low bone mineral density (BMD).