Tag Archives: bone density

Hip Series for Strength

This hip series takes the hip through its range of motion of external rotation, internal rotation, abduction, adduction, flexion, extension, and circumduction. If we want our hip joints to function optimally, we need to put them through their full range of movement possibility. These kinds of movements can strengthen hip muscles and help improve bone density as well.

According to a March 2014 article from Harvard Health Publishing,

“The chances of developing osteoporosis vary with age, body type, estrogen levels, genetic makeup, ethnicity, lifestyle, level of physical activity, diet, and certain medical conditions. Women are especially vulnerable because they lose bone at an accelerated rate during the first few years after menopause. Along with adequate calcium and vitamin D, exercise is a cornerstone of osteoporosis prevention. It not only helps limit bone loss but also improves balance and coordination and strengthens the muscles we rely on to stay upright. This provides a hedge against falls — one of the main causes of fractures.”

Theraband Leg Strength and Flexibility

Series of leg strengthening exercises using a Theraband that address quads, adductors, abductors, hamstrings, and rotators followed by stretches. Can use a foam roller for the quads if desired.

Resistance training with Therabands can have an impact on bone development. According to Harvard Heath Newsletter Article “Exercise sampler: Building hip Strength”

When you put demands on bone, it responds by becoming stronger and denser. Bearing or resisting weight — any activity that works against gravity — stimulates the growth of new bone tissue. Your weight-bearing bones are mainly in your feet and legs and they respond to such activities as walking, jogging, playing soccer, and climbing stairs. Swimming is good for overall fitness, but it isn’t weight-bearing and thus does not improve bone mass or density.

Resistance training, or exercising with weights (see “Working with weights,” below) or resistance bands, can have an even more pronounced effect on bone than weight-bearing exercise. It applies stress to the bones by way of the muscles and tendons. As muscles grow stronger, they pull increasingly harder on bone, which helps build bone mass.

Another study cited in National Center for Biotechnology Information “Effects of Resistance Exercise on Bone Health” concluded that resistance exercise can be highly beneficial for the preservation of bone and muscle mass.

Effects of Resistance Exercise on Bone Health (nih.gov)