~~Your bodies bone mass is very important. Bone building begins about 15 weeks into pregnancy and is greatest in early adult hood and at which time bone mass tends to decrease. Too much reduction in bone mass can lead to osteoporosis. (Generally, osteoporosis sufferers are older people.) Exercise is a great way to reduce or stop reduction in bone mass. It has been demonstrated that the best exercises to maintain and build bone mass are weight bearing and non-impact.

Weight bearing exercises use gravity to work bones, joints and muscles. Generally weight bearing exercises are done when on the feet. Weight bearing exercises stimulate the cells that grow bones. Running or using either free weights or a weight machine are good ways to get weight bearing exercise.

Non impact exercise not only helps build bone, but also helps with balance and coordination; two things that help one prevent falls. Some good non-impact exercises are any balance exercises like using a wobble board, and other good non impact exercises are yoga or Pilates.

Weight bearing and non impact exercises should be done each approximately 4 days a week for at least 30 minutes.

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