Definitions like the one below, out of medical journals, are a little disheartening, don’t you think?:
Sarcopenia is a progressive and generalized skeletal muscle disorder involving the accelerated loss of muscle mass and function that is associated with increased adverse outcomes including falls, functional decline, frailty, and mortality.
Whoa, let’s step back for a moment!
The reality is, we can build muscle at any age, right up until our last breath. We will never be 25 again, but we need not be resigned to frailty.. We can become much stronger than we are led to believe by our youth focused culture.
Aging is not always about loss. Aging is not a “disorder” and we are not just shuffling along the road to dusty death. Please don’t be rattled by the labels and the definitions.
Continuing to move each day means we are working muscles. Our muscles propel our bones and the more of our body weight the muscles and bones have to bear, the better for our health. There is no magic to this: just get going. Make the muscles work in small or large ways, as you are able. Maybe, with guidance from a reputable helper, add some additional weight.
If you need some inspiration, here’s a terrific article.
https://www.nytimes.com/guides/year-of-living-better/how-to-build-muscle-strength
Movement truly is the closest thing to a Fountain of Youth we have.
If you’re interested in a gentle movement class – one that can help build strength – remember, I offer two per week.
