The Importance of Weight-Bearing Exercise in Later Life

The Importance of Weight-Bearing Exercise in Later LifeIntroducing the Legends (55+) Class at CrossFit Buntingford

As we get older, staying active becomes more important than ever — but the type of exercise we choose matters just as much. One of the most beneficial forms of exercise for people in later life is weight-bearing exercise. That’s why CrossFit Buntingford is thrilled to introduce our Legends (55+) class — a program specifically designed to help older adults build strength, improve balance, and enhance overall health in a supportive, fun, and welcoming environment.

Why Weight-Bearing Exercise Matters as We Age

Weight-bearing exercises are any activities that make you work against gravity while staying upright. These include strength training, bodyweight exercises, and functional movements like squats, lunges, and presses. For people in later life, these types of exercises offer a range of incredible benefits:

🦴 1. Maintains and Improves Bone Density

As we age, we naturally lose bone density, which increases the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercise helps stimulate bone growth, making bones stronger and reducing the risk of breaks and injuries. Studies have shown that regular strength training can slow — and even reverse — bone loss.

💪 2. Builds and Preserves Muscle Mass

From around the age of 30, we begin to lose muscle mass (a process called sarcopenia) at a rate of 3–5% per decade. This loss accelerates after 60, leading to weakness and reduced mobility. Weight-bearing exercises help maintain and build muscle, improving strength and functional ability for everyday tasks like climbing stairs, carrying groceries, and getting up from a chair.

🩸 3. Improves Joint Health and Reduces Pain

Strong muscles help support and protect joints, reducing wear and tear. Weight-bearing exercise also promotes the production of synovial fluid, which keeps joints lubricated and reduces stiffness and pain — especially beneficial for those with arthritis.

🧠 4. Enhances Balance and Coordination

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults. Strengthening muscles and improving coordination through functional weight-bearing movements helps improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls.

❤️ 5. Boosts Cardiovascular Health and Metabolism

Strength training and functional exercise increase heart rate, improve circulation, and help regulate blood sugar levels — all of which contribute to a healthier heart and reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

😄 6. Supports Mental Health and Cognitive Function

Exercise releases endorphins, which improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety. It’s also linked to improved cognitive function, memory, and mental sharpness — keeping you feeling sharp and focused as you age.

Introducing the Legends (55+) Class at CrossFit Buntingford

We understand that starting (or returning to) exercise later in life can feel daunting. That’s why our Legends (55+) class is designed specifically for older adults — offering a safe, structured, and encouraging environment to build strength and confidence at your own pace.

✅ Tailored Workouts

Our experienced coaches design workouts that are scaled to individual ability levels. Whether you’re new to exercise or have been active for years, we’ll help you progress safely and effectively.

✅ Functional Movements for Daily Life

The workouts focus on functional movements — the kind you use in everyday life. Squatting, lifting, pressing, and pulling help improve strength and mobility for day-to-day tasks.

✅ Community and Support

One of the biggest benefits of CrossFit is the community. The Legends class offers a supportive and welcoming environment where you can train alongside others who share similar goals and experiences.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Start

It’s never too late to start improving your strength and fitness. The key to aging well is staying active — and weight-bearing exercise is one of the most powerful tools available. Whether your goal is to feel stronger, improve balance, reduce joint pain, or simply stay independent for longer, the Legends (55+) class at CrossFit Buntingford is the perfect place to begin.

🌟 Come Join Us!

Our Legends (55+) class is more than just a workout — it’s an opportunity to feel stronger, healthier, and more confident in your body. No matter your starting point, we’ll meet you where you are and help you build a stronger future.

👉 Ready to get started? Contact CrossFit Buntingford today to sign up for your first Legends class! Message or call Claire on 07816 488834

Your future self will thank you. 💪