Staying active becomes increasingly important as we grow older. While many forms of exercise offer benefits, one consistently stands out for its powerful impact – strength training.
Be.Well
12 Jun, 2026
Staying active becomes increasingly important as we grow older. While many forms of exercise offer benefits, one consistently stands out for its powerful impact – strength training.
Strength training, also known as resistance training, is a type of exercise that causes your muscles to contract against an outside resistance. The specific resistance can be from body weight, weight machines, medicine balls, resistance bands, or dumbbells
Muscle strength begins to decline gradually between the ages of 30 and 35, then accelerates more rapidly after age 65 in women and age 70 in men
Incorporating strength training 2 to 4 times per week can help increase muscle mass, strengthen bones, improve joint flexibility, weight control, higher sleep quality and reduce the risk of falls as we age
If you're starting a new strength training program, it is important to consult your doctor to ensure it's safe for you. Choosing a specific strength program can depend on a person's current health status, age, muscle strength and goals.
A basic plan typically targets the main muscle groups: chest, back, arms, shoulders, core, and legs.
Adapted from: https://www.unchealthappalachian.org/blog/2025/strength-training/
