Evidence has been accumulating during the last decade, showing a positive relationship between dynamic resistance training and health enhancement. Weight training (exercising the major muscles of the body at an intensity level of 70% to 90% of maximum strength) rather than weight lifting (lifting maximum loads in power or olympic style) has produced these changes. Very recent studies have shown that cardiac patients can benefit from appropriately planned weight training programs. Although weight training had always been considered too dangerous for cardiac patients, 25 cardiac patients participated in 3 years of circuit weight training. As a group, they had a 24% increase in strength and a 12% increase in cardiorespiratory endurance.Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by the deterioration of bone, which ultimately leads to bones that are so fragile that they fracture at the slightest provocation. Women are much more susceptible than men to this diseases. Women can protect the integrity of the skeletal system by maintaining a normal menstrual status, by being adequately nourished, and by participating regularly in an exercise program that includes weight training.
Tags:cardiac patients, cardiorespiratory endurance, dynamic resistance, Exercise, exercise program, health enhancement, maximum strength, resistance training, weight lifting weight training programs