Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by reduced bone density which can lead to an increased risk of fracture and development of painful spinal and skeletal problems. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis is responsible for more than 1.5 million fractures annually, including over 300,000 hip fractures, 700,000 first vertebral fractures, 250,000 wrist fractures, and 300,000 fractures at other sites.

While hormone replacement therapy has been shown effective in promoting bone density, it brings side effects that are not present with exercise. Additionally, aerobic exercise like that done on a treadmill or elliptical trainer, has been shown to help you lose weight which will have an impact on bone stress. Several studies have shown that exercise can increase bone density and/or slow the rate of decrease in both men and women.

In their best selling book: Osteoporisis, Betty and Si Kamen, state that, aerobic walking is the best possible exercise for osteoporosis prevention.

While it may not work for everyone, and the precise amount and type of exercise necessary to accrue benefits is unknown, but there is evidence that it can help. In fact, Calcium, which is an important component of bone structure is not absorbed into your system unless there is a demand created through exercise.

Aerobic exercise also offers the additional benefits of reducing heart disease, helping in weight management and preventing high blood pressure.
For more information on how you can help prevent and treat Osteoporosis, take a look at Sara Meeks book “Walk Tall”