Understanding Changes In Our Bodies With Aging

According to the article written by Kyle Stull, DHSC, “Effects of Aging on the Neuromuscular System”, physiological changes with aging are normal but they can affect the human movement system.

Some of the effects of aging are:

• Neuromuscular changes in the aging population includes muscle weakness, reduced joint proprioception, and a decrease in power. These declines can significantly affect dynamic posture control and balance, alter gait mechanics, cause faulty perception, and increase injury risk.

• The motor unit cells (motor neurons) in the neuromuscular system are small fiber units that control the muscles. One muscle may be controlled by hundreds of motor neurons and when they fire, have a quick response. As we change, the neurons change in size, making the process slower and causing them to group into a larger neuron.

• The slower the motor unit gets, the slower it communicates with the nervous system, which creates a decrease in sensation and coordination.

• The slower speed which creates slower postural control affects overall balance.

Our Transformational Yoga Program includes balance stabilizer and power exercise training. Awareness of the impact of these changes on the body is the first step to countering them and keeping fit!

Article from Fitness Journal, March-April 2021