Topic Overview
Resistance (strength) training exercise can improve your overall
physical health and ability to do daily activities. It can also lower or prevent the bone loss associated with menopause.
These exercises use weights or elastic
bands to help improve muscle strength and increase exercise endurance. The
increased muscle mass helps your body use energy more efficiently. Resistance
training is often combined with aerobic exercise, such as walking or running. This helps control weight, improve heart health, and decrease the demands made
on the heart during daily activities, such as carrying groceries.
Resistance training is part of most cardiac rehabilitation
programs.
You will get the most benefit from resistance exercises when you do them at least 2 days a week.