BUILDING STRENGTH

You may think that you do not need strength training or that it may cause more pain and stiffness, so why do it? As I have mentioned in previous chapters, strength training can actually provide several benefits. I started my father on a simple strengthening program several years ago, when he was putting off knee replacement surgery. He was able to delay having surgery for several years because of his regular exercise. When he finally had the surgery, he regained his functional strength relatively quickly. After finishing rehabilitation, he started on an intensive strength-training routine at a local facility. Now, not only is the leg with the replacement doing well, his other knee is hurting less.

Benefits of Strength training

Basic Requirements of Strength Training

Variations in Resistance Training

Home Versus Fitness Facility program

Recommended Exercises

Sample Programs

Precautions

Personalizing Your Program