As we move into what some meanies call middle age, our beauty routines start to require more than eye serum, firming moisturizer, and regular exfoliation.
What’s now necessary is finding the fountain of youth—a seemingly impossible task until you discover what strength training does for the mind, body and soul.
5 reasons to add strength training to your routine:
- Stronger bones – After age 40, bone loss occurs at 1% per year—this increased frailty means bones are at greater risk of fracture and breakage, even after a minor fall or scuffle.
- More confidence – Lifting weights teaches us to persevere through difficulty and become stronger than we ever imagined possible—which is an incredible confidence booster.
- Increased muscle mass – Starting in our thirties, muscle mass decreases—2 to 3 pounds of fat-burning muscle per decade—if we don’t fight that off with adequate protein intake and muscle-building activities.
- Fewer aches and pains – Progressive resistance training reduces pain, even in people with osteoarthritis. Ask a middle-aged person who took up strength training about the benefits—being less creaky is sure to be on their list!
- Less stress – Regular exercise causes the brain to increase production of endorphins, which makes us feel good after each session and over time.
Strength training is transformative; once you fall in love with it (or its benefits), you may see your self-care improve in other areas too. Before strength training, proper sleep and nutrition may have seemed like a luxury, but as a strong person, you’ll know recovery and fuel are essential.
It’s also essential to figure out how to safely get started with a strength training routine. Check out the ideas in our book list below, and then seek out personalized advice from a certified fitness trainer. And remember, if you have any medical concerns, talk to your doctor.
Strength training book list:
- Bodyweight training – Strong Curves: A Woman’s Guide to Building a Better Butt and Body by Bret Contreras and Kellie Davis, and Strength for Life by Shawn Phillips.
- Weightlifting with machines – Body by Science: A Research Based Program to Get the Results You Want in 12 Minutes a Week by John R. Little and Doug McGuff, MD.
- Barbell strength training – The Barbell Prescription: Strength Training for Life After 40 by Jonathon Sullivan, MD and Andy Baker.
Whatever route you take towards a strong body and mind, you’ll feel good taking care of yourself. But if strength training is new to you, your first few sessions may result in muscle soreness and a funny walk.
We can help you with that. If you’d like to treat yourself to a well-deserved dose of relaxation, give us a call to book a deep tissue massage or a rejuvenating facial.
Feel great, look great with Hand & Stone Massage & Facial Spa.
Massage. Facials. Waxing. At Hand & Stone, our registered massage therapists will relieve tension, soothe tired muscles and ease headaches. Interested in our facial services? We know radiant, healthy skin reflects how you look and feel. Hand & Stone’s facials are performed by certified estheticians and we are proud to offer Dermalogica®, YonKa and Diego Dalla Palma products so you can enjoy a bright, beautiful complexion between regular appointments.
We’ll help you look and feel your best, affordably! Call today to schedule your appointment! We’re open 7 days a week with extended hours and gift cards are available for all occasions. Contact us today!