A female tactical athlete is seeking an alternative to resistance training that would aid in increasing bone density. Which of the following would most likely elicit the greatest increase in bone mineral density?

Walking lunges with a weighted vest can be particularly effective for increasing bone mineral density due to the load-bearing nature of the exercise. When the body experiences weight through movement, such as during lunges loaded with a vest, the stimulus can promote bone remodeling and increase bone density. The compressive forces placed on the bones during weighted lunges stimulate osteoblast activity, which is crucial for bone formation.

Moreover, walking lunges engage multiple muscle groups and incorporate balance and stability, further enhancing the mechanical load on the bones. The combination of resistance and functional movement patterns supports not only bone health but also overall strength, coordination, and muscular endurance, which are essential for tactical athletes.

In contrast, while jumping rope can offer cardiovascular benefits and improve agility, it may not provide the same level of targeted bone loading as weighted resistance training. Techniques like rowing and bodyweight squats, although beneficial for strength and muscle endurance, may lack the necessary load compared to weighted exercises for optimizing bone density. Thus, using a weighted vest during walking lunges presents a more effective means of enhancing bone mineral density relative to the other activities mentioned.