MitchellH

Bone Density May Not Measure Bone Strength

From the article: "A study from Manchester Metropolitan University in the UK shows that sprint cyclists have denser bones than long distance cyclists who have denser bones than sedentary control subjects (Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, March 2009). While cyclists have less dense bones than weight lifters and football players, they still have denser bones than people who do not exercise. The greater the force on bones during exercise, the denser the bone. So any type of exercise is good for your bones and a sedentary lifestyle is bad for bones."

johnny99

The last 2 issues of Road Bike Rider have included an on-going debate with and about Dr. Markin. Not everyone agrees with him.
https://www.roadbikerider.com/383.htm
https://www.roadbikerider.com/

Pi}{ie

As someone at the age of 28 with osteoporosis this does not suprise me here's why:

1. Impact sports actually help build bone density
2. Most people who play impact sports also weight lift which builds bone density
3. Endurance athletics make you tap your body's storage facilities even if you are eating. Your bones store calcium. Calcium is there for more likely to be released from the bones during long distance events due to the body using it to function.

Bontrager

Someone with osteoporosis at 28 years of age does not fit the criteria for "normal". These articles are not about you. Hopefully you're seeking a doctor and getting appropriate treatment for your disease.

Pi}{ie

I know its technically abnormal, I have a dr who makes the big money for a reason.

I'm just stating since I have it I understand the fundementals of why this study makes sense. Many people dont realise the reason certain things are reccomended and others are not. A short burst of activity like a sprint does not require the body go into its reserves like a long hual. High impact activities make your body have to continually repair the tissue being dammaged. Weight bearing exercise makes your body build both muscle and bone to support the weight. These arent exactly topics they teach in generic health and bio which is unfortunate.

jeebusaurousrex

Various forms of martial arts have figured out that high impact creates stronger (denser) bones a long time ago. There's a reason practitioners train on wooden dummies and break schtuff with their heads and hands and shins and forearms, etc. Ever see muy thai boxers get their shins smashed by wooden rods as practice? Yeaaaah, that ain't happening with you or I without our bones cracking...unless, of course, you're a muy thai boxer.