The effect of resistance training on bone strength in women: A quantitative review

Because of its potential for promoting bone growth, physical activity can help prevent osteoporosis (Drinkwater, 1994). Indeed, quantitative reviews find that exercise interventions, including mainly aerobic or weight-bearing activities, are effective in promoting bone growth in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women (Berard, Bravo, & Gauthier, 1997; Kelly, 1998a; Kelly, 1998b; Wolff, et al. 1999). There is less consensus about the effectiveness of resistance training on bone strength in women (Layne & Nelson, 1999), and no quantitative reviews have been conducted on the topic. Further, reviews have not included unpublished studies in their analysis. Therefore, the goal of this study was to provide a quantitative review of the resistance training and bone strength literature that included both published and unpublished studies.