Over 50 Training
As your body ages certain abilities change. Over time, the two abilities
that change the most are leg strength and balance. Both strength and
balance are interdependent upon one another for standing, sitting and
negotiating stairs. They are also important for preventing falls and resultant
fractures.
If you are over 50, the best way to increase these two abilities is
through dumbbell training. When performed in the standing position,
dumbbells have the ability to strengthen muscles, improve balance
mechanisms and bone health all at the same time.
The Perfect Post-Rehabilitation Training Tool
The over 50 body usually has a few joints that are not working up to full
ability. As a post-rehabilitation tool, dumbbells are excellent in
providing strength in many directions of movement. If one side of the body
is weaker than the other, then the weight of the dumbbell can be matched
perfectly to the strength imbalance. As your joints strengthen, dumbbells
can easily be incorporated into the exercises you do regularly.
Get Started With Dumbbells Today
There are a wide assortment of shapes and sizes of dumbbells to use in
your fitness program. Most fitness experts consider the dumbbell to be a
superior training tool because of its ability to impart total body
strength, balance, stamina and full joint range of motion. These qualities
are something that most other forms of fitness equipment cannot offer. So
let's look at why, especially if you are over 50, you want to use dumbbells
as your primary training tool of choice.
Benefit #1 Full Range of Joint Motion
Dumbbells are non-restrictive when it comes to joint range of motion. As
an example, if you have a shoulder problem, a dumbbell can be lifted in the
"restricted motion" still benefiting rehabilitation and recovery from the
injury. Very light or ultra light weights can be used to regain strength
until the shoulder becomes stronger and capable of a full range of motion.
Benefit #2 Better Balance Stimulation
Dumbbells, by their very nature, force you to control and balance your
body as you lift. Incorporating dumbbells with other body motions such as
single leg balances, lunges, standing one leg presses and even BOSU
activities challenge your balance system like no other piece of fitness
equipment.
Benefit #3 Asymmetrical (One Sided) Training
A single dumbbell is an effective core strengthener especially when used
in the overhead or extended position. Asymmetrical training better
stimulates the muscles that are involved in "real world" lifting and carrying
and is important for any complete fitness program. It also adds an important
stabilization component to all fitness activities by strengthening joints
and reducing injury.
Benefit #4 Remove the Dominant Side
Everyone is stronger on one side of their body than the other. Dumbbells
allow for independent strengthening of the weaker side keeping the stronger
side out of the lifting motion. A more balanced muscular system allows you to
perform better at all activities and sports and reduces the potential for injury
to the weaker side.