Regular fitness training, combined with a healthy diet, can help prevent osteoporosis in later life.

Osteoporosis is a condition affecting bone density, meaning they are more prone to breaks and fractures.

Although an individual's risk of developing the condition is partly genetic, the National Osteoporosis Society states that by investing in our bone 'bank' by taking plenty of exercise we can help keep bones strong as we get older.

Weight bearing exercise is particularly good for strengthening bones, as well as jogging and use of an indoor rowing machine.

Experts also recommend eating a well balanced, calcium-rich diet.

In addition, teenage girls who diet to reach size zero are at increased risk of developing osteoporosis, according to a long-term child development study.

Research by Bristol University found that fat mass plays an important role in building bone and striving to be thin could cause long-term damage to the skeleton.

Osteoporosis costs the NHS and government £2.3 billion a year, statistics from the National Osteoporosis Society show.

Posted by Stacey Potts