Yard work can help older women avoid the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis. Weight training also helps boost bone strength. Women who gardened at least once a week had stronger bones than women who were sedentary or participated in other activities such as jogging, swimming, walking or aerobics. Weekly weight training, bicycling, aerobics and dancing were also associated with greater bone density than swimming, jogging, or yoga. The best thing about yard work is that so many people are willing to do it. People have other motivations for gardening. They take pride in a beautiful yard and pleasure in being outdoors. They'll probably continue to do it as long as they're able.