Strength training is recognised as central to public health

The Chief Medical Officer’s guidelines recommend muscle-strengthening activity at LEAST twice a week.

Strength training is no longer just a hobby of individuals interested in fitness - it is increasingly recognised as central to public health. Strength training, in particular for older adults should be thought of as an essential preventative not as optional.

Regular strength training can help to maintain and build muscle mass. This not only improves physical appearance but also increases everyday functional abilities as we age including getting up and down from a chair, toilet or bed, the things that can help us maintain independence and dignity as we age.

Sarcopenia and frailty result in strength and balance decline, falls alone cost the NHS an estimated £2.3 billion annually. Sarcopenia and frailty contribute significantly to hospital admissions and social care demand in the UK.

Muscle mass declines at approximately 1% per year after mid-life, accelerating after the age of 60. Including regular strength training at least twice a week will help to slow this down.