We often say strength training is the ‘cheat code’ to staying strong, active, and resilient at any age—and research backs this up. Even training just two days a week has proven benefits for improving quality of life as we get older. In Episode 20 of Inside SSP, Coaches Natalie and Chris dive into how strength training helps us age well, enhancing everything from mobility and energy to overall resilience.
Why Strength Training is Key as We Age
As we age, we naturally experience a decline in muscle mass and strength, which can lead to a loss of physical ability. Research from the National Institute on Aging’s Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging shows that our muscle mass and power tends to peak in our early 30s and then slowly declines.
The bad news? If we don’t do anything to offset this loss of muscle mass, we will see very noticeable decreases, especially after age 65 for women and 70 for men. This change affects our overall independence — everything from our balance and mobility to how easily we can manage daily activities.
Benefits That Go Beyond Physical Strength
Strength training does more than build muscle—it protects us from injury and promotes faster recovery. By strengthening bones, ligaments, and tendons, regular strength workouts prepare us to handle the physical demands of daily life and help prevent falls, which are a common cause of injury as we age. Research also shows that strength training enhances joint stability, which can reduce pain from conditions like arthritis.
Beyond physical resilience, strength training supports cognitive health. Studies from Harvard Health have shown that strength training helps improve memory and focus, reduce anxiety, and may even lower the risk of dementia. Members often tell us they feel mentally sharper and less stressed, which positively impacts every area of their lives.
Our goal as coaches at SSP, is to help you build sustainable, functional strength. We customize each person’s program to focus on safe, progressive training that supports your overall well-being.
If you’re interested in getting started, fill out this form to set up an introductory assessment with us. Together, we’ll go over your goals, answer any questions, and build a plan that’s right for you.
References:
National Institute on Aging. (n.d.). How can strength training build healthier bodies as we age? U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/how-can-strength-training-build-healthier-bodies-we-age
Harvard Medical School. (2021). Strength training builds more than muscles. Harvard Health Publishing. Retrieved from Harvard Health