Dr. McDougall's Online Discussion Board

I know the elliptical is good for cardio, but I’m wondering if it is good for strengthening bones as well, specifically for attempting to prevent osteoporosis.

I would ask Jeff Novick to be sure, but I think weight training would be better for strengthening bone than low-impact activities like the elliptical and bike riding.

Michael

I agree.....the Elliptical will help (lower body) but you need to do some all over light resistance training. I basically walk on a treadmill, pedal on a stationary bike, and lift light weights in a gym....very simple like the McDougall starch based diet.

Bones respond to stress by remodeling themselves thicker, more dense, stronger. The word "stress" is key. Heavy resistance is probably needed (heavy for you, not for anyone else!). Best of all is "impact" i.e. jumping up and down on solid surface to provide sudden, linear stress/release through the bones.