How does resistance exercise benefit bone health?

Resistance exercise benefits bone health primarily through the mechanism of mechanical loading. When you engage in resistance training, the muscles exert force on the bones they are attached to. This force stimulates the bone remodeling process, where bone tissue is continuously broken down and rebuilt.

The strain that is placed on the bones during resistance training encourages the bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) to increase their activity. This leads to an increase in bone density and overall strength of the bones, thereby reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. The impact of this mechanical loading is crucial for maintaining healthy bone metabolism throughout life, particularly as one ages.

While increasing muscle mass, enhancing cardiovascular endurance, and reducing fat mass are important benefits associated with exercise, they do not directly address bone health in the way that mechanical loading from resistance exercise does. Hence, the correct choice reflects the specific impact that resistance training has on enhancing bone density and strength through the application of mechanical forces.