Why it's not too late to start lifting weights in your 50's

Lifting weights is a form of resistance or strength training, and is an important part of a good, consistent exercise program.

However, people over 50 tend to not engage with strength training as much as they could. This may be due to the stronger focus in the 70s, 80s, and 90s on aerobic training or cardiovascular exercise, as well as generally being busy with work, kids etc.

However, it is never too late to start strength training! In fact, as we age, it is even more important to prioritise strength training as part of an exercise regime.

Strength training has been proven to prevent an issue called sarcopenia, which is the deterioration of muscle mass. This loss of muscle generally begins to occur at around 30-35 years of age! Sarcopenia occurs most rapidly from about 65 onwards – meaning that the window between 30 and 65 is super important for building and maintaining muscle mass!

By building more muscle at this time, we can also better regulate how much body fat we have, as we burn more energy at rest when we have more muscle!

As well as preventing losing muscle, strength training can help with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes & osteoporosis. It also helps improve our overall function, bone and joint health, and mental health.

It is worth visiting a GP, Physio or Accredited Exercise Physiologist for advice on starting a strength training program. Interestingly, over 50s tend to enjoy strength training programs more when in a group setting! So, get out there and start lifting some weights!

References:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/how-can-strength-training-build-healthier-bodies-we-age

https://www.health.gov.au/topics/physical-activity-and-exercise/physical-activity-and-exercise-guidelines-for-all-australians/for-older-australians-65-years-and-over?language=en

https://exerciseright.com.au/strength-training-50s/