Wednesday, June 23, 2010

I is for Iron (pumping iron that is)


As we get older it seems there’s so much to think about, but one of the best things you can do is pump some good ole fashioned iron. Recent studies have shown that after age 40, most people lose about 1 percent of their muscle mass each year! 

So what’s the big deal about losing muscle mass, and why should you care? Actually… there are many reasons why.

Having less muscle also alters metabolism, which could lead to obesity or other changes that could alter a body’s ability to use insulin effectively, thus increasing the risk of diabetes.  Muscle loss can also lead to weak bones, again increasing risk of breaks and injury.

The good news is… studies show that building muscle (through pumping iron) can stop, and potentially even reverse, all of these effects, regardless of age or what shape you’re in.

Studies have also found that pumping iron can help create a feeling of well-being, reducing risk of depression, and it’s been said that it may even help improve overall mental/cognitive health, which is why many doctors are starting to recommend weight training to patients with Alzheimer’s.

Weight lifting, according to studies, is one of the most important activities that adults can pursue to stay healthy. Today adding a little iron to your routine is simpler than ever, and you don’t have to go to a traditional gym. Men’s Health offers a fantastic Muscle Plan on their website and we’ve been touting the benefits and results of bar classes on the Sprout Strategy Facebook page for months (a Sprout ‘must try’). 

Marketing Idea: One of the things we’ve been learning from consumers, especially those just entering the natural foods market, is they need our help – the idea of “being healthy” is not only foreign to them, but very overwhelming and intimidating, making them ‘hungry’ for solutions.

The Sprout’s know that healthy eating and nutrition is THE key to staying healthy, but it seems this has become an extremely myopic and undifferentiated idea for Natural Food companies. There couldn’t be a more perfect positioning for these brands than the idea of “Total Body”. We would love to see more step outside their comfort zone of nutrition and encouraging total-body health, and it can be as simple as providing new and interesting exercises on/in packaging, a dedicated page on their website or even partnering with a fitness organization, personal trainers or special events.

Here’s to pumping iron and in return, living your best possible life!