I wanted to help clarify a question I often receive about jumping with osteoporosis!
From my education as a physical therapist and my own review of research and effective exercises, the more you CAN SAFELY “load” the bone, the more the bone is triggered to build stronger.
ALL of this however depends upon safety and current individual ability/strength. I have not personally FULLY evaluated you and your current abilities, so I always tell people to jump if they CAN SAFELY (approved by doc, feel comfortable and able).
Always ease in slowly with anything new, but the loading is great if you can do it safely because it will help with bone building.
NOTHING is good to do though if you cannot do it safely, and of course don’t overdo it. We each know our bodies and our limitations and need to listen to that and the docs who have evaluated us.
I know many women who can and should jump, but I know many who can’t or shouldn’t jump as well. Just wanted you to know why I recommend what I recommend.
I have put alot of thought and time researching and learning trying to reach a broad audience safely and effectively using ALL the tools known to help if they can be done safely.
If you can’t jump, that’s ok-that’s just one component. There is still plenty that can be done.
Marching or step ups are an easier alternative to jumping and can still give you some impact!
I want to give everyone all the tools and then help them tailor these tools to their particular situation and needs (ie. step ups instead of jumps, marching instead of jumps, or just no jumping at all and focusing on other aspects). Hope that makes sense!
Reminder: If you CAN SAFELY jump, land softly with flexed knees, that give a bit when you land (not fully extended knees). and softly on the balls of your feet and lower down as well.
