A well-rounded fitness regimen is made up of various components, including strength training. Strength training can be mischaracterized as an activity best suited to individuals looking to bulk up. However, strength training is about much more than just maxing out on the bench press.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, muscle-strengthening activities reduce the risk of falls and fractures, which is a notable benefit for adults of all ages, and particularly so for adults nearing an age where they might experience mobility issues. The National Institute on Aging notes that studies indicate as many as three in 10 individuals over age 70 experience mobility issues that affect their ability to walk, get up out of a chair and climb stairs. Adults in middle-age, and even those for whom retirement remains decades away, can prevent such issues by incorporating strength training into their workout regimens.

Novices who want to do just that can heed these tips to avoid injury as their bodies acclimate to strength training. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

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