When I was a kid, I never developed a taste for milk. Well, no, that’s not strictly true – I loved CHOCOLATE milk. I never had it, so, consequently, I didn’t drink milk. I heard all of the horror stories that were linked to non consumption of milk – the broken bones, the osteoporosis later in life – but I chose to ignore all of them. I mean, really, who wants to think about the things that might happen fifty years in the future?

Me. Now. I’m thinking about it now.

Every exercise routine needs to have a steady balance between strength training, endurance training, and cardiovascular training. Today’s topic, strength training, plays a huge roll in this equation. Strength training has been proven to increase bone density, increase lean muscle mass, improve posture, and reduce the risk of injury. The increase of bone density refers to the strengthening of the bones which helps prevent injury, pain, and arthritis. The increase of lean muscle mass increases the metabolism which allows the body to burn more calories each day and night.

Common questions related to strength training include “How much weight should I use?” and “How many sets and repetitions should I do?”. Let me first say that every “body” is different and will react differently to the situation. Some people may pack on the muscle while others struggle to gain only a little bit. Strength training is a little more advanced than just simple weight training. Proper form and technique is a must and possible injuries could arise if each and every exercise is not performed correctly. Personal trainers or other fitness enthusiasts are typically available if you have questions about your form.

Prunes aren’t on the top of everyone’s favorite snack list. But the dried plum, often relegated to a snack that only our grandparents nosh on, should be on your menu as well.

Plums aren’t just good for regularity. Research shows that they also promote bone and heart health. A study revealed that the polyphenols, a chemical substance found in plants, found in prunes boosted the formation of bones and increases their density.