Motion Clinic: Is this your sign to start weightlifting?

The clinic currently operates in two locations: Motion Gym on Fore Street and the Clinic on North Street, Heavitree.

Osteoporosis is a particularly common health issue in women over the age of 55, who usually experience a decrease in bone density after menopause.

Exeter Today spoke with Andrew Horide, owner of the clinic, to learn more about this hands-on treatment plan.

“There’s not really many businesses around the UK that are doing this programme,” says Andrew. 

“With our ageing population, people fracturing their hips due to osteoporosis is on the rise, and unfortunately, the mortality rate after falls is fairly high.”

Andrew explained that similar programmes are common in countries like Australia, which have already recognised the significant health benefits for older individuals who begin weightlifting. 

“The programme is doing really well. Some people, especially those new to weightlifting, have initial concerns. But we have one lady in her 70s who started from scratch and is now deadlifting 50 kg.

“That’s what our physio Harry is there for. To increase people’s confidence and help them to learn how to push their bodies in safe ways.”

Describing the science behind powerlifting, Andrew explained that bone tissue, like muscle tissue, constantly breaks down and rebuilds based on the stress it experiences. 

By applying regular pressure to bones through movement and exercise, the body is prompted to strengthen bone tissue, which can help prevent or even reverse osteoporosis over time.

For optimal results, individuals should weight train at least twice and ideally three times a week and focus on key, compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and shoulder presses, which load the spine and work out several muscles at once. 

Describing his personal experience of the programme's results, Andrew shared: “As an osteopath, I deal with people who are experiencing pain and chronic issues. Seeing some of my patients, who have gone back and forth with recurrent injuries, start to gain confidence through weightlifting has been fantastic.”

Andrew also said that the classes have become supportive social spaces, with many of their clients forming friendships that continue outside of the sessions.

There are plans to introduce more rehabilitation programmes, and increase the number of weightlifting sessions on offer in the future, but a lot of it is demand-dependent.

It would appear that these classes would benefit a wide array of people, as office jobs or remote working have increased the likelihood of living an inactive lifestyle.

Andrew added: “When you break down an average day, you’ll find that the majority of people are very inactive. They might do a bit of exercise like swimming here and there, which is great, but there are distinct benefits of cardiovascular work. Weight training can significantly improve quality of life, even for something as simple as climbing stairs without knee pain. It just needs consistency.”

You can find out more about Motion Clinic’s health services, and specifically their Osteoporosis Prevention Programme on their website.