Why Strength Training Over 35 Is Non-Negotiable

Let’s get one thing straight:

If you’re over 35 and your fitness plan doesn’t include strength training… it’s missing the most important piece of the puzzle.

Forget what you heard in the 90s – you don’t need hours of cardio or endless sit-ups. And lifting weights won’t make you bulky – but it will help you feel younger, leaner, stronger, and more energised.

In fact, strength training becomes more important the older you get – for both men and women.

Here’s why.

🧠 What Actually Happens to Your Body After 35?

After your mid-30s, your body naturally starts losing muscle mass (called sarcopenia). By your 50s, it can decline by 1–2% every year if you're not actively working against it.

And with that muscle loss comes:

• Slower metabolism

• More fat gain (especially around the midsection)

• Less strength for everyday things (stairs, lifting bags, opening jars)

• Increased injury risk

• Lower energy, balance, and bone density

Sounds grim, right?

Here’s the good news…

💪 Strength Training Reverses This

Strength training – using bodyweight, dumbbells, resistance bands or machines – is your secret weapon for:

• Keeping your metabolism firing

• Protecting your joints and bones

• Building lean muscle and tone

• Boosting energy and confidence

• Improving posture, mood, and sleep

And no, it’s not too late to start. Most of our clients in their 40s, 50s and 60s have never lifted before. And guess what? They see results faster than they ever expected.

🔥 Why It Beats Cardio (Especially Now)

Cardio is great for heart health and mental clarity. But for body composition, mobility and long-term strength? Strength training wins every time.

• Lifting builds muscle AND burns fat

• You continue to burn calories long after your session ends

• It builds functional strength – think lifting your shopping, not just running on a treadmill

• It supports hormones, bone health, and mood regulation (hello serotonin!)

If you’ve been spending hours on the cross-trainer but not seeing results, this could be why.

🕒 “I Don’t Have Time” – You Don’t Need Much

The beauty of strength training is you only need 2–3 sessions per week for 30–45 minutes.

That’s it.

You don’t need to live in the gym. You just need to train with intent.

Need help with that? Our fitness classes in Bridport are designed around smart, structured resistance workouts – and our personal training in Bridport offers totally tailored support, even if you’ve never lifted before.

✅ Where to Start (Even If You’re Brand New)

If it’s been years (or decades) since you’ve done anything like this, don’t worry. Start simple:

• Bodyweight squats

• Glute bridges

• Press-ups (wall or incline if needed)

• Dumbbell rows

• Resistance band work

The key? Progress slowly, consistently, and safely. A qualified personal trainer in Bridport can help you with form, confidence, and programming that works for YOUR body.

👊 This Is About More Than Aesthetics

Yes, strength training helps you feel more confident in your clothes (and out of them).

But it also helps you:

• Chase your kids or grandkids

• Carry heavy shopping

• Reduce aches and pains

• Sleep better

• Feel more in control of your health

This isn’t about punishing your body – it’s about future-proofing it.

📍 Ready to Get Stronger, Fitter & More Confident?

You don’t need to be fit to start. You just need to start.

✅ Join one of our supportive, strength-focused fitness classes in Bridport ✅ Or work 1-1 with a personal trainer in Bridport who understands your age, injuries, and goals

📅 Book a free consultation today – we’ll help you build strength, confidence and energy – no matter your starting point.

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