Osteoporosis is the gradual and silent loss of bone with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture.

Many people are unaware they have osteoporosis until they suffer a fracture.  An estimated one in three women and one in 12 men over 50 suffer from the condition. 

There are many reasons why someone may have osteoporosis, including the following;

• Menopause, especially early menopause
• Women who have undergone hysterectomy especially early, ie before 45
• Women who have dieted throughout their lives and have low body weight
• Smoking, drinking, high caffeine and use of certain drugs, including steroids
• Chemotherapy and radiation
• Genetics and hereditary

Early osteoporosis can be detected with a bone density scan using low dose X-rays, which is also known as a DEXA scan, (dual energy X-ray absorbimetry).

If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis it is important that you tell your fitness instructor as there are some special considerations to think about in planning your exercise routine.  However, it is important to keep moving and incorporating exercises using weight and resistance bands.

For further information have a look at the Royal Osteoporosis Society website which gives practical guidance on living and exercising with osteoporosis.