Historically, weightlifting/strength training has been limited primarily to the young, athletic population seeking to improve performance. However, the benefits gained from resistance training can extend beyond the playing field to the maintenance of bone strength, thus impacting the performance of everyday activities.

This review of the literature discusses the influence of progressive resistance training on bone density. The authors evaluated the study results from the past 10 years, focusing on cross-sectional designs and longitudinal studies. They paid particular attention to potential differences in the effects of resistance training vs. aerobic exercise or weight-bearing physical activities.

Literature results were discussed in terms of various potential variables influencing bone gain/loss, including:

• long-term training among active older men;
• female athletes and bone density;
• weightlifters vs. skiers vs. cyclists; and
• resistance training in premenopausal women (see the study in the Women’s Health section of this issue).

The research reviewed suggests a positive association between resistance training and bone mineral density in young and older adults, with the effects being specific to the working muscles and the bones to which they attach. The authors note that “although aerobic exercise and weight-bearing physical activity are important… resistance training exercise seems to have a more potent impact on bone density.”