Functional Strength Training for the Aging Spine – Shari Kalkstein

Enhancing Strength, Flexibility and Function in the Adult with Spinal Conditions

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 28 million Americans (80 percent of them are women) suffer from the debilitating effects of osteoporosis while millions more experience the same weakness, functional limitations and diminished quality of life associated with other degenerative conditions. The problem becomes more prevalent as the population of older adults increases. However, with appropriate nutrition, exercise and guidance from well-trained professionals, adults can live more productive, active and enjoyable lives.

This recording will provide you with hands-on, practical insight and understanding into some of the physical changes occurring in the spines and joints of older adults. Several degenerative conditions will be discussed along with how to address them through strength training and postural exercises. You will learn how to empower your clients so they can regain their strength, posture and confidence. New approaches and exercises will be discussed, demonstrated and practiced, allowing you to immediately adopt and adapt them to your clients.

1. Examine common conditions affecting the aging spine, including degenerative spinal conditions and osteoporosis
2. Develop more effective strength and conditioning programs for individuals with degenerative spinal conditions and other joints affected by arthritis
3. Establish guidelines for exercise and stretching based on each client’s abilities
4. Demonstrate proper techniques for upper, lower and core body exercises that enhance posture and spinal health
5. Evaluate the effects of degenerative spinal conditions associated with aging
6. Identify controllable and uncontrollable risk factors for osteoporosis
7. Explain the philosophy of a functional exercise program
8. Discuss the goals of strength training for clients with spinal and postural degeneration
9. Describe and demonstrate appropriate trunk, upper and lower body exercises
10. Identify contraindicated exercises for clients with certain degenerative spinal conditions
11. Develop safe and effective exercise and fitness programs that support the aging spine

Degenerative Conditions Associated with Aging

• Spinal stenosis
• Spondylosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Osteoporosis

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

• Uncontrollable
• Controllable
• Dietary concerns

Guidelines for Exercise

• Goals for the aging client
• Strength vs. flexibility
• Stretching
• Active vs. passive
• Active assist
• Evaluating and prioritizing types of exercise for the individual client

Modifications to Exercises

• Posture restrictions
• Postural modifications
• Postural re-education exercises

Abdominal and Back Exercises—Demonstration and Practice

• Guidelines for safe exercises
• Neutral spine
• Core stability

Upper Body Exercises—Demonstration and Practice

• Weight bearing exercises
• Non-weight bearing strengthening exercises

Lower Body Exercises—Demonstration and Practice

• Weight bearing
• Fall prevention
• Balance activities

Overview of Gym Machines

• Do’s
• Don’ts