In a recent statement, renowned heart surgeon Jeremy London challenges a commonly held belief regarding bone health, particularly emphasizing that walking alone is insufficient for building strong bones. He explains that while walking is often recommended for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it lacks the mechanical load necessary to stimulate bone growth and strength. This assertion is particularly crucial for middle-aged women, who face increased risks of bone density loss due to hormonal changes after the age of 40.

London, with over 25 years of clinical experience, acknowledges the numerous benefits of walking, including improved mood, better blood pressure regulation, enhanced metabolic health, and weight management. However, he stresses that these benefits do not extend to preventing osteoporosis and osteopenia, conditions that threaten the bone health of women during and after menopause due to a decrease in estrogen levels. He advocates for a more targeted approach to physical activity that goes beyond basic cardiovascular exercise.

The distinction that London makes between activities aimed at cardiovascular health and those specifically designed to strengthen bones highlights a significant gap in public understanding of physical fitness. He urges middle-aged women to engage in weight-bearing exercises that genuinely promote bone health, rather than relying solely on walking, which may not be adequate to protect against bone loss. This guidance is essential for fostering a proactive approach to health in an aging population, particularly among women.