Strength training is an essential part of treatments at our Boulder Physical Therapy and Lafayette Physical Therapy practices. All patients regardless of injury, diagnosis, or ability level will perform a form of strength training to improve their performance or ability to perform the activities they enjoy. This valuable form of exercise continues to be studied on its’ ability to not only improve strength and performance, but also influence a participant’s health. Previous studies have shown improved cardiovascular, mental, and emotional health. A recent systematic review of the available evidence was published documenting the association between strength training and a reduced risk of early disease and death.
Shailendra and colleagues published their review of the recent medical literature on the association between strength training, disease risk, and death (Am J Prev Med. 2022). Authors reviewed 10 studies in their meta analysis and reported performing any amount of strength training reduced a participants risk of early death by 15%. In addition, risk of death from cardiac and causes causes was reduced by 19% and 14%, respectively. Interestingly, a maximum amount of risk reduction (27%) was found at only 60 minutes per week of strength training. A greater risk reduction benefit was not found at greater than 60 minutes per week. This allows participants to reach this benefit with 2-3 sessions per week of 20-30 minutes.
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