Rebecca A. Seguin,

B.S., CSCS

Jacqueline N. Epping,

M.Ed.

David M. Buchner,

M.D., M.P.H.

Rina Bloch,

M.D.

Miriam E. Nelson,

Ph.D.

Stronger

growing

John Hancock Center for Physical Activity and Nutrition at theFriedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts UniversityDivision of Nutrition and Physical Activity at the Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention

STRENGTHTRAININGFOR OLDERADULTS

ach year, we learn more about thetremendous health benefits of staying physically active and beingproperly nourished throughout ourlives. The work of scientists, healthprofessionals,andolderadultvolunteershas greatly increased our knowledgeabout the aging process and how wecan maintain strength, dignity, andindependence as we age.Essential to staying strong and vitalduring older adulthood is participa-tion in regular strengthening exercises,which help to prevent osteoporosis and frailty by stimulating thegrowth of muscle and bone. Feeling physically strong also promotesmental and emotional health. Strength training exercises are easy tolearn, and have been proven safe and effective through years of thorough research.Experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and TuftsUniversity, with the help of older adults, have created this book,

Growing Stronger: Strength Training for Older Adults

to help youbecome stronger and maintain your health and independence. Iencourage you to read it carefully and begin using this strength trainingprogram as soon as possible. It can make a profound difference inyour physical, mental, and emotional health.Let us aim, as a nation, to Grow Stronger together. To your health—

David Satcher, M.D., Ph.D.

Director, National Center for Primary CareMorehouse School of MedicineUnited States Surgeon General, 1998-2002

DEPARTMENTOFHEALTHANDHUMANSERVICES

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention