Why the Onero Program is the Gold Standard for Osteoporosis Management

Osteoporosis affects millions of people worldwide, significantly increasing the risk of fractures and reducing quality of life. With numerous exercise programs claiming to improve bone health, it can be difficult to determine which approach is the most effective. Among these, the Onero Program stands out as a proven, evidence-based intervention that delivers exceptional results in improving bone density, reducing fracture risk, and enhancing overall well-being.

In this blog, we’ll explore why the Onero Program is considered the best option for managing osteoporosis, comparing it to traditional approaches and backing its effectiveness with research.

What Makes the Onero Program Unique?

The Onero Program is a structured, supervised exercise regimen developed specifically for individuals with osteoporosis. Designed by Dr. Belinda Beck and her team at Griffith University, the program incorporates high-intensity resistance exercises and impact-loading activities to stimulate bone growth and improve overall musculoskeletal health.

Unlike many other exercise programs, Onero’s focus is on bone-specific loading, which is scientifically proven to trigger bone remodelling—the process by which bones become stronger and denser in response to mechanical stress. This targeted approach ensures that participants achieve meaningful results safely and effectively.

How the Onero Program Outperforms Other Programs

Evidence-Based Design

The Onero Program is underpinned by robust research, including the groundbreaking LIFTMOR (Lifting Intervention For Training Muscle and Osteoporosis Rehabilitation) trial. This study demonstrated that high-intensity resistance and impact training significantly improved bone density in postmenopausal women with low bone mass.

Key findings from the LIFTMOR trial include:

  • A 3.2% increase in spinal bone density and a 2.2% increase in hip bone density among participants following the Onero Program.

  • No reported adverse effects, highlighting the program’s safety when performed under professional supervision.

In contrast, many traditional programs, such as walking or swimming, do not provide the mechanical stress needed to stimulate significant bone growth. While beneficial for general fitness, these activities fall short in effectively addressing the specific needs of individuals with osteoporosis.

Focus on High-Intensity and Impact Loading

A standout feature of the Onero Program is its emphasis on high-intensity resistance training and impact loading. These exercises generate the forces necessary to stimulate bone remodelling, making them far more effective than low-intensity or generic fitness routines.

Examples of exercises used in the Onero Program include weighted squats, deadlifts, and controlled jumping movements. These activities target areas most vulnerable to fractures, such as the hips, spine, and wrists, strengthening the bones and surrounding muscles.

Traditional programs often avoid high-intensity exercises, fearing they might cause injury. However, research has shown that under proper supervision, these exercises are not only safe but also essential for reversing bone density loss.

Comprehensive Fracture Prevention

The Onero Program doesn’t just focus on bone health—it addresses the broader factors that contribute to fracture risk. This includes:

  • Muscle Strengthening: Stronger muscles provide better support for joints and bones, reducing strain and improving mobility.

  • Balance and Coordination Training: Enhances stability and reduces the likelihood of falls, a leading cause of fractures in individuals with osteoporosis.

This holistic approach makes the Onero Program superior to programs that focus solely on bone density without considering functional outcomes.

Safety and Supervision

One of the key advantages of the Onero Program is its delivery under the guidance of trained professionals. Participants receive personalised instruction, ensuring exercises are performed safely and effectively. This supervision is critical for individuals with osteoporosis, as improper form or excessive intensity can increase the risk of injury.

In contrast, many general fitness programs lack this level of tailored support, making them less suitable for individuals with osteoporosis or other specific health concerns.

Sustainable Results

The Onero Program is designed for long-term success. It equips participants with the skills and confidence to maintain their exercise routines independently over time. By fostering sustainable habits, the program ensures that participants continue to see benefits long after they’ve completed the structured sessions.

In comparison, many short-term programs fail to provide the tools necessary for ongoing maintenance, resulting in diminished progress once the program ends.

The Research Behind the Onero Program

The effectiveness of the Onero Program is backed by extensive research, including:

  • LIFTMOR Trial (Beck et al., 2015): Demonstrated significant improvements in bone density and functional strength in postmenopausal women following high-intensity resistance and impact training.

  • Journal of Bone and Mineral Research (Giangregorio et al., 2014): Found that high-intensity resistance training is the most effective form of exercise for improving bone strength and reducing fracture risk.

  • Osteoporosis International (Howe et al., 2011): A meta-analysis concluded that impact-loading and resistance exercises outperform low-impact activities in increasing bone density.

These studies highlight the superiority of the Onero Program’s evidence-based approach over other exercise methods for managing osteoporosis.

Is the Onero Program Right for You?

The Onero Program is ideal for individuals who:

  • Are postmenopausal women or older adults at risk of osteoporosis.

  • Have been diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia and are looking for a proven method to improve bone health.

  • Want to reduce their fracture risk while improving strength, balance, and overall quality of life.

Before starting the program, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider or Exercise Physiologist to ensure you’re a suitable candidate for high-intensity training.

Conclusion

When it comes to osteoporosis management, the Onero Program stands out as the gold standard. Its focus on high-intensity, bone-specific exercises sets it apart from traditional fitness programs, offering unparalleled improvements in bone density, muscle strength, and fracture prevention. Backed by extensive research and delivered under professional supervision, the Onero Program provides a safe, effective, and sustainable path to stronger bones and better health.

If you’re ready to take control of your bone health, consider the Onero Program—it’s a step toward a stronger, healthier future.

References:

  1. Beck, B. R., et al. (2015). LIFTMOR Trial: High-Intensity Resistance and Impact Training in Postmenopausal Women. Osteoporosis International.

  2. Giangregorio, L., et al. (2014). Exercise for Improving Outcomes in Osteoporosis. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research.

  3. Howe, T. E., et al. (2011). Exercise for Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis International.

  4. Maher, C., et al. (2017). Staying Active for Bone Health. The Lancet.