Many people believe that exercise after 40 is just about walking and stretching. But in fact, strength training is the key to longevity, maintaining muscle mass, and maintaining metabolism. After age 30, a person loses up to 3-5% of their muscle mass every 10 years—a process that accelerates without weight training.
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Strength training stimulates testosterone and growth hormone production, even in women, improves bone density (preventing osteoporosis), and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. The WHO recommends at least two strength training sessions per week for all adults.
You can start with bodyweight exercises: squats, wall push-ups, planks, lunges. After 2-3 weeks, add dumbbells (1-3 kg) or resistance bands. The key is proper technique, not weight. It’s better to do 8 perfect reps than 15 with errors.
Pay special attention to your lower back and knees. Before your workout, be sure to warm up for 5-7 minutes: pelvic rotations, leg swings, and shoulder circles. Afterward, stretch to maintain flexibility and avoid pain.
In your diet, emphasize protein: 1.2-1.6 g per kg of body weight. This can be found in cottage cheese, eggs, fish, or legumes. Protein is essential for muscle recovery. Also, don’t forget creatine, a safe and effective supplement that improves strength and endurance.