[Does exercise improve the skeleton of young women?]

Abstract

Background: High bone mineral density (BMD) at menopause can reduce the risk for osteoporotic fractures later in life, hence it is important to identify factors that can increase or maintain BMD during the premenopausal years. Physical activity is considered a major factor. This review examines how physical activity affects BMD in premenopausal women.

Material and methods: The literature was identified on Medline. In addition, relevant books were examined.

Results: Research indicates that weight-bearing exercises that involve high-magnitude loading can maintain or increase BMD in premenopausal women, especially in the loaded bones. Low to moderate intensive training and non-weight bearing exercise show minor or no effect on BMD.

Interpretation: In every day life, effective physical activity or training to maintain or increase bone mass in young women ought to include short-term high mechanical load, preferably with unusual load distribution, which also is fast and dynamic. Physical activity in young women seems to be an important factor in reducing the risk of osteoporotic fractures later in life.