What is Power Training?
Power is the ability to produce force as quickly as possible, which is an expression of both speed and strength.
Common activities that require power include;
- Sprinting
- Jumping
- Throwing
- Catching yourself from a fall
- Standing up from a chair quickly.
As we age we tend to shy away from power based activities without realising it. Power training is frequently seen as a type of training reserved for “athletes” but this is not the case and it can be adapted for anyone.
Why do Power Training?
It is very common for strength training to be prioritised due to the loss of muscle mass/strength that is associated with aging. However, did you know that we lose muscular power at a faster rate than muscular strength?
The importance of power training can not be underestimated. High degrees of muscular power is linked to reductions in falls risk, improvements in functional capacity and greater bone density. Power plays a crucial role in falls prevention as good power is seen through the ability to catch yourself after tripping/slipping.
Falls or tripping/slipping can happen to anyone and age does not discriminate, it is our ability to respond that is key. By implementing some power training exercises it could help you manage falls if they potentially occur.
What are some examples of Power Training?
Power training can be seen through different modalities and like strength training can be adapted to your current capacity. Early stages could include performing some everyday tasks like step ups and sit to stands at a fast pace. From here some options could include some jumping or throwing variations.
Similar to strength training, there is variety to be found in power training and beyond the introduction it can be an enjoyable way to exercise. All power training that is prescribed factors in your health and goals, therefore everything will be tailored to your current capacity.
Who should you see about starting Power Training?
If you are new or currently completing exercise and want to find out how you can implement some power training into your program please book in with one of our Exercise Physiologists. Everyone can benefit from power training. It is about collaborating with an Exercise Physiologist to find out where you can start.