Top 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Strength Train—At Any Age

When most people think of strength training, they picture bodybuilders lifting heavy weights or athletes pushing their limits. But strength training isn’t just for elite performers—it’s for everyone, no matter your age, fitness level, or goals. In fact, incorporating strength training into your weekly routine can be one of the most beneficial things you do for your long-term health.

Here are the top 5 reasons why you should start strength training today:

1. Builds Muscle and Boosts Metabolism

As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass—a process called sarcopenia. Strength training helps counteract this decline, preserving and even building muscle. More muscle means a higher resting metabolism, which helps your body burn more calories throughout the day, even when you’re not moving. Whether you’re in your 20s or 70s, maintaining muscle is key to staying strong and energetic.

2. Improves Bone Health

Strength training isn’t just good for muscles—it’s essential for bone health too. Lifting weights and performing resistance exercises put healthy stress on bones, which stimulates bone-building processes. This can help prevent or manage osteoporosis, a condition that becomes more common as we age, especially among women.

3. Enhances Balance and Reduces Fall Risk

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults, but they aren’t inevitable. Strength training improves coordination, balance, and stability by strengthening key muscle groups, especially around the hips and core. The result? Better control over your movements and a lower risk of falls and related injuries.

4. Supports Mental Health

Strength training has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and improve overall mood. The endorphin release after a workout, coupled with the confidence that comes from getting stronger, makes a real difference in how you feel—both mentally and emotionally. Plus, mastering new movements and hitting goals can provide a powerful sense of accomplishment.

5. Promotes Long-Term Independence

Whether it’s climbing stairs, lifting groceries, or playing with your grandchildren, everyday activities require strength. Maintaining muscle through regular training helps you stay functional and independent, especially as you age. Strength training now helps ensure that you can keep doing the things you love later.

Ready to Get Started—But Not Sure How?

If you’re new to strength training, dealing with pain, or worried about injury, the physical therapists at Restorative Therapy Co. are here to help. We specialize in personalized strength-building programs that are safe, effective, and tailored to your body’s needs—no matter your age or experience level. Whether you’re recovering from injury, managing chronic pain, or just getting started with exercise, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Reach out today and let’s build a stronger, healthier you—together.

If you or someone you know is interested in physical therapy, come see one of our experienced clinicians at Restorative Therapy Co. and get relief from your symptoms! For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at 757-578-2958, visit www.restorativetherapyco.com or email us at info@restorativetherapyco.com. We are participating providers with a variety of insurance plans and no physician referral is needed for your initial physical therapy evaluation! We want to help you feel well and be well.

Contributed by Britni Maher, PT, DPT, MTC, CMTPT

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Britni earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine in 2012.

 Her areas of focus include manual therapy, dry needling, orthopedics, pre and post-surgical and spinal rehab.  Britni is a Virginia Beach local. When she’s not working with her patients, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, and chasing her dogs at the beach.