This week’s assignment:
Short Answer
1. With respect to the aging process, list at least six benefits derived from participation in regular physical activity. Give a brief definition for each. (6)
2. In your own words, describe the effects of normal aging on metabolism. (2)
3. In your own words, describe the effects of normal aging on bone mass. (2)
Learning Experience (20)
Choose one of the following learning experiences. Perform the experience as instructed and write a 250 word essay describing your experience and what you gained from participating. Provide a comprehensive explanation of your findings, including the answer to the learning experience, as well as how this knowledge can benefit you in your service to your future clients, friends, and/or family.
1. Take the Assessment of Healthy Habits Survey found in your course text. Was your score positive or negative? Discuss the areas of your life that need to change in order to increase your life expectancy score. Describe in detail what change(s) you plan to make.
2. Choose one of the negative habits or risk factors from the Assessment of Healthy Habits Survey found in your course text. Find a research article from a scientific journal or magazine that discusses the behavior or condition you’ve chosen. Summarize the findings of the article in your essay, and discuss the actions you can take as a trainer to reduce the effects of the condition on one’s life expectancy.
3. Choose one of the biomarkers listed in your course text. Research the topic and explain in detail the relationship between that biomarker and aging. Discuss the relationship between the symptoms of aging and the effects of a sedentary lifestyle.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction: As a medical professor in charge of creating assignments and evaluating student performance, it is important to cover various topics related to human health. This week’s assignment covers the benefits of regular physical activity, the effects of normal aging on metabolism and bone mass, as well as offering a choice of learning experiences to further expand knowledge on healthy habits and aging biomarkers.
1. Regular physical activity provides numerous benefits for aging individuals, including:
– Improved cardiovascular health: Regular exercise can strengthen the heart muscle, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
– Increased muscle strength: Strength training can help maintain muscle mass and prevent muscle loss associated with aging.
– Improved balance and coordination: Exercise can help improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.
– Reduced risk of chronic disease: Regular physical activity can help prevent or manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and osteoporosis.
– Improved cognitive function: Exercise has been shown to improve brain function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
– Increased overall well-being: Exercise can improve mood, reduce stress, and increase self-esteem.
2. Normal aging can lead to changes in metabolism, including a slower metabolic rate and decreased muscle mass. These changes can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. However, regular physical activity can help counteract these effects by increasing muscle mass and improving metabolic function.
3. Normal aging can also lead to a decrease in bone mass, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Regular weight-bearing exercise, such as walking or resistance training, can help improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. Additionally, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake is important for maintaining bone health.
Learning Experience:
I have chosen to complete learning experience number two. After taking the Assessment of Healthy Habits Survey, I identified stress management as an area that needs improvement. I found a research article from a scientific journal that discussed the effects of chronic stress on overall health. The article stated that chronic stress can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, depression, and a weakened immune system. As a trainer, I plan to incorporate stress-management techniques into my personal training sessions, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises. I will also encourage my clients to find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise or hobbies. By reducing chronic stress, my clients can improve their overall health and increase their life expectancy.
