Consistency Is What Truly Matters For Long-Term Health

As we enter the second month, the "New Year, New Me" fitness surge starts to fade, and many people settle back into old habits. But staying consistent is what truly matters for long-term health.

Walking and cycling are great ways to stay active, but I’ve seen many people hit a plateau with these activities.

One of the most common goals I hear is, "I want to lose weight." But without understanding what that weight is, many end up losing valuable muscle mass, an unhealthy outcome, especially as we age.

Osteoporosis is a silent epidemic, affecting nearly 54 million Americans and leading to two million broken bones each year, costing $19 billion in healthcare expenses. Without strong muscles and bones, injuries can be life-altering.

• Hip fractures can be life-threatening, studies show that nearly 25% of people over 65 who suffer one die within a year. Strength training isn’t just about building muscle; it’s a powerful tool for preventing falls and fractures that can drastically impact quality of life.

• Weight-bearing exercises, such as resistance training, significantly improve bone mineral density, especially in postmenopausal women. The stronger your muscles, the stronger your bones, helping you stay active, independent, and resilient as you age.

To protect your bones and maintain strength, avoid excessive animal protein, soda, caffeine, alcohol, and sodium, which can weaken bone density. But just as important is what you add to your routine, resistance training.

No matter your age, strength training is one of the most powerful ways to preserve muscle, increase bone density, and improve longevity.