Body and Soul: Bone-Building Action

Body and Soul: Bone-Building Action

You don’t have to be a runner or heavy-duty weight lifter to build bone mass. Any weight-bearing activity—walking up the stairs, carrying a baby or a load of groceries—can help prevent bone loss.

Plan to get more bone strength

Building bone doesn't have to be boring. Start by jumping up and down or skipping every day for 2 minutes.

And try these other bone-healthy moves from Miriam Nelson, PhD, director of the Center for Physical Activity and Nutrition at Tufts University—no gym required, just some dumbbells and ankle weights.

Start with 2- to 3-pound weights and slowly increase as you gain strength. Take a rest day between weight workouts.

You can do these moves while watching TV or sitting at your desk at work.