If your doctor or trainer recommends weight-bearing exercise and you're not quite sure what it is, read on.

What Is Weight-bearing Exercise?

In weight-bearing exercises, your bones and muscles work against gravity and your feet and legs bear the weight. Your bones adapt to the weight and pull of the muscle during weight-bearing exercise by building more bone cells and becoming stronger. This makes your bones stronger and may help prevent ]]>osteoporosis]]>.

How Weight-bearing Exercise Works

Weight-bearing exercises include strength-training (resistance) exercises and some aerobic exercises.

Exercises that are both weight-bearing and aerobic include:

  • Jogging
  • Walking
  • Stair climbing
  • Dancing
  • Soccer
  • Basketball

Strength training exercises include:

  • Calisthenics, such as push-ups or chin-ups
  • Weight-lifting, using:
    • Free weights
    • Weight machines
    • Elastic tubing

Getting Started

Before starting an exercise program, ]]>check with your doctor about any possible medical problems]]> you may have that would limit your exercise program. If you're new to exercise, consider making an appointment with a certified athletic trainer to help you develop a safe, effective, and enjoyable exercise program. You can find a trainer at a local gym or through a referral from your healthcare provider or a friend.