By DC Trux

Maintaining bone density is an important concern for many postmenopausal women. I am a proponent of using weight vests for training in a variety of professional and ultra-athletic sports. In my research of using weight vests for extreme training I have found some interesting data I thought I would share about how weight vests are also helping postmenopausal women maintain bone density and reduce bone loss.

Exercise has long been one of the best ways that people can maintain vitality and keep or improve a great quality of life. It is also one of the best ways to maintain bone density in post menopausal women. Using a weight vest will further enhance the benefits women receive from exercise and help to maintain bone health. In May of 2000, Oregon State University conducted a study that found postmenopausal women who participate in a long-term fitness regimen that includes jumping and “resistance” exercises using weighted vests can prevent significant bone loss in the hip.

The results of the 5 year study showed that exercise can provide a natural alternative to estrogen and other supplements for women seeking to prevent bone loss after menopause, said Christine Snow, director of the Bone Research Laboratory at OSU and principal investigator in the study.

Not only did study participants reduce the amount of bone lose, some actually increased bone density in the femoral neck of the hip. While the control group lost 4.4 percent of its bone mass, the group that exercised with a weighted vest increased bone density by 1.5 percent. This is significant because more than 50 percent of all bone fractures in the U.S. occur in the femoral neck of the hip.

As you can guess, participants of the study felt quite a bit better as well. Some of the benefits the participants pointed out were;

- Reduction of bone loss

- Increased stamina

- Improved balance

- Better joint stability

Weight vests themselves have come a long way. They are no longer bulky and uncomfortable devices. Many are comfortable, fully adjustable, stylish and thin enough to be worn under a shirt. There are many great weight vests available. One of the best on the market can be found here. Quality weight vests can typically be found for around a starting price of $139.

DC is an avid athlete. He is an experienced martial artist having trained in Krav Maga, Thai Kickboxing and MMA for the past 9 years. Recently, DC has started to participate in endurance sports such as road bike tours, triathlons and mountain bike races. DC has prepared tips from his experience as a beginner triathlete at here.

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