Resistance training may firm up hip bone density in people at fracture risk
Across 53 pooled trials, people aged 50 and over with low bone density or a past fracture moved better, reported less pain and rated their quality of life higher after progressive resistance training, with a possible small gain in femoral neck bone density. Whether it prevents falls is still an open question.
For you: If your bone scan or family history worries you, lifting is a well-supported way to move better and hurt less, with a possible small bone bonus; just do not rely on it alone to prevent falls.
What it shows: Strong pooled evidence: 53 trials in men and women aged 50 and over with low bone density or a past fracture. The bone benefit was small and only clear at the femoral neck, and nobody can yet say whether this training cuts the risk of falling.Meta-analysis · Phys Ther