Many older women don’t participate in strength training, and the reasons are many: lack of awareness, outdated fitness advice, fear of injury, or simply not knowing where to start. But the science is clear. Strength training is one of the most effective ways to maintain health, independence, and vitality as we age.

Here Are Some Key Insights

• Muscle loss begins around age 35. Women tend to reach critical levels of strength loss earlier than men due to lower peak muscle mass.
• Strength training can reverse or slow declines in bone density, muscle mass, and metabolic health. Benefits that cardio alone can’t match.
• Despite these benefits, adherence is a major challenge. Many women don’t stick with programs long enough to see results, or they don’t know how to modify workouts safely for their age or fitness level.
• For women who were less active earlier in life, starting strength training later is still incredibly beneficial, though it may require more personalized guidance.

Information Source: Now.tufts.edu, Flippingfifty.com, and Girlsgonestrong.com