Biking and poor bone density

[cvcalhoun]

@KLizotte 151095 wrote:

Came across this rather alarming article about cycling and poor bone density. I knew racers typically have weak bones but I always figured mountain bikers were spared. Evidently not. And who knew we sweat calcium?!? Ekkkkkk

Has anyone had their bone density checked lately? I already know mine is poor and have to take Vitamin D3 supplements.

http://www.bicycling.com/training/health-injuries/frame-work-build-bone-strength

Unfortunately, what’s good for your joints is bad for your bones, and vice versa. I had my bone density checked at one point, and it said that I should really start worrying about osteoporosis when I was about 120 years old, so I kind of stopped worrying about it. But for those whose genetics in that department are not as good, it may be a good idea to vary one’s exercise, doing high impact exercise at least some of the time.

[Rootchopper]

High impact is not necessary. Weight bearing is what you are looking for. Go for a hike from time to time.

[lordofthemark]

When I had to buy a fitness center membership to get access to showers at work, that incented me to do weight training – now that I have a shower only membership, my only weight lifting will be at the fitness center at home. Which I don’t go to nearly as much as I should.

OTOH the configuration of the bike room at home means I need to pick the bike up every time I come home, so that helps I guess, as does the lifting I do whenever I put the bike on a rack on the bus. Plus I walk and hike a lot.

[Author]

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