It’s safe to say that most women over 40 who spent quality time building their careers, during their early years, are now looking to invest in their physical abilities. When I say career, I also include those stay at home mothers out there. Taking care of the family, in my opinion, is one of the toughest careers ever. But that’s a topic for a different article.
The investment in our physical abilities, after 40’s, is not an easy task or a way out of doing work. Strength training, unlike the Zumba class most of us have experienced, is tough work. I am talking about doing a movement as little as five times, and then realizing how simple and hard full range of motion movements actually are.
The list of benefits that strength training brings to the table is vast. Below is a list from all of the women over 40 I have had the chance to work with during my 12 plus years as a trainer
1- Better sleep. Without getting too scientific here, menopause and peri-menopause years make it tough to fall asleep and to stay asleep. Most physical activities will improve sleep, but strength training is extremely beneficial for 40+ woman because of its hormone balancing effect.
2- Body image. Yes, you will look better, and the enhancement of your self-confidence will be noticeable, as soon as four months of a consistent and balanced lifestyle. Leaner muscle, stronger body, and some fighting skills will do that to you. The increased libido during peri-menopausal is also one of the positive effects of strength training.
3- Pleasant doctor visits. All of your health markers will improve dramatically. Strength training has been put the test. There are hundreds of studies that have demonstrated how this method of training has a direct affect on blood pressure, lowering triglycerides, resting heart rate, and insulin levels.
As I mentioned, the list is vast but I will stick to the three reasons every single woman over 40 has told me within 6-8 months of consistent strength training. It’s fun, gives you a new set of skills, plus it’s much cheaper than a heart attack or diabetes treatment.
