Physical activity and exercise in the maintenance of the adult skeleton and the prevention of osteoporotic fractures

In the prevention of osteoporosis and osteoporoticrelated fractures, strategies aimed at maximizing peak bone mass during childhood and adolescence; maintaining or attenuating bone loss during the adult years; and increasing or preserving muscle mass, strength, power, and function are all considered critical. To this end, physical activity and exercise are recognized as important modifiable lifestyle variables that can strengthen the skeleton and muscles and reduce the risk of falls and subsequent fracture, as well as enhance quality of life... <div><br />This chapter provides an overview of the changes in the adult skeleton with age; the scientific basis for physical activity and exercise as a strategy to maintain or enhance skeletal integrity; the role of various modes of physical activity/exercise to augment bone mass, geometry, and strength; the antifracture efficacy of physical activity and exercise; and exercise recommendations for optimizing musculoskeletal health and reducing the risk of fracture during adulthood and old age.</div>