Before beginning any new exercise program, it's essential to consult your doctor first, particularly if you've already been diagnosed with osteoporosis. He or she can tell you what level of exercise is appropriate for you, or direct you to another health-care professional who can advise you.
During your appointment, your doctor will probably review the following points:
- What types of exercise will benefit you in managing your osteoporosis
- Health conditions other than osteoporosis, such as heart disease or diabetes
- Your weight – is it within the right range for your size and build
- Current medications for osteoporosis or any other condition
Your doctor may want you to start slowly and work your way up to a regular exercise routine. If so, find out how many minutes you should exercise in the first few weeks, and how many minutes you can add to your exercise routine in the months to come.
The benefits of exercise
If you have osteoporosis, there are obvious benefits to exercising several times each week, such as:
- Creating the right type of stress on bones and joints that will help build bone
- Increasing your muscle strength
- Improving your balance and coordination, thus helping to reduce the risk of falling
- Improving your posture
Regular exercise can provide a number of other benefits, too.
- You'll feel better and sleep better
- You can improve your cardiovascular health
- If you participate in group activities, you'll meet new people
