Researchers at the University of Arkansas looked at bone mineral densities and physical activity levels of more than 3,000 women and found that gardening was second only to weight training in boosting bones.

"Yard work involves pushing a mower, digging holes, pulling weeds, and carrying soil, dirt, or gravel. These are all strenuous, weight-bearing activities that build bones," says Lori Turner, Ph.D., R.D., associate professor of health science and lead author of the study. And while any weight-bearing exercise will also bolster bones, people in the study were more likely to stick with gardening, Turner says. People consider gardening a leisure activity with the end result of a beautiful yard, instead of a chore or exercise.

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Contributors Amy Paturel and Rose Bennett Gilbert