How does physical activity benefit bone health?

Engaging in physical activity plays a critical role in enhancing bone health, which is why the correct choice highlights that it strengthens bones and increases bone density. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, running, and resistance training, apply stress to the bones. This mechanical loading stimulates bone remodeling, a process where bone tissue is broken down and rebuilt, ultimately resulting in stronger, denser bones.

Research supports the idea that increased physical activity positively influences bone density. When bones experience the stress of exercise, they adapt by becoming thicker and more robust in order to better withstand future mechanical loads. This process is essential for preventing conditions such as osteoporosis, which is characterized by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures.

In contrast to the other options, which suggest either negative effects or no significant benefits of physical activity on bones, the reality is that regular exercise is key to maintaining healthy bone structure throughout life, particularly during growth periods and as one ages. The emphasis on strengthening bones and increasing density underscores the critical importance of physical activity in promoting lifelong skeletal health.