The Importance of Muscle Strength as We Age

Maintaining muscle strength as we age is crucial for several reasons:

1. Preventing muscle loss: As we age, we naturally experience a decline in muscle mass, known as sarcopenia. By engaging in regular strength training exercises, we can slow down this process and prevent excessive muscle loss. This is important because reduced muscle mass can lead to weakness, frailty, and an increased risk of falls and injuries.
2. Enhancing functional ability: Strong muscles are essential for performing everyday activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, carrying groceries, and getting up from a chair. By maintaining muscle strength, we can preserve our independence and continue to engage in the activities we enjoy
3. Improving bone health: Strength training exercises put stress on our bones, which stimulates the production of new bone tissue. This helps to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones.
4. Boosting metabolism: Muscle is more metabolically active than fat, meaning it burns more calories at rest. As we age, our metabolism naturally slows down, leading to weight gain and an increased risk of chronic conditions like obesity and diabetes. By maintaining muscle strength, we can help to counteract this decline in metabolism and maintain a healthy weight.
5. Enhancing balance and stability: Strong muscles, particularly in the lower body, play a crucial role in maintaining balance and stability. This is important for preventing falls, which can have serious consequences for older adults, such as fractures and a loss of confidence.
6. Promoting overall health and well-being: Regular exercise, including strength training, has numerous benefits for overall health. It can help to reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Exercise also improves mental health, reduces stress, and enhances cognitive function.

In conclusion, maintaining muscle strength as we age is essential for preserving our physical function, preventing muscle loss and bone density decline, boosting metabolism, enhancing balance and stability, and promoting overall health and well-being.

Have a think about how much real strength work you do on a daily or weekly basis - the good news is it's never too late to start to include or increase this sort of exercise. If you want to try out an additional Lindsey Fitness Class that incorporates strength work , get in touch for a chat about how we can accomodate you.

FOOD MATTERS >>>>

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss until they are well coated with the marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.
6. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. Serve the grilled lemon herb chicken skewers with a side dish of your choice, such as a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful grilled lemon herb chicken skewers for a perfect summer meal!

Don't forget to book your Lindsey Fitness Classes 

- HiiT, WalkFit, and Aerobics for up to six weeks in advance!

CLASS NOTICES

NO PRESDALES - August  28th Bank Holiday Monday

EXTRA 5 Class 'Summer' Pass

( for Saturday and Monday Class Members ONLY)

Now Available - Valid NOW  throughout July & August

 Please ask in Class

Have a wonderful week , Love Lindsey xxx