STAY STRONG!

Joe Wicks explains how resistance training can help slow the ageing process

- Amber Bramble

You don't have to be a musclewoman to lift weights. Strength training is something that we all can do at very little cost- no fancy gym membership needed! 

If you haven't done strength training before, it's never too late to get started. In fact, celebrity trainer Joe Wicks says this kind of exercise becomes even more important as we get older. "Don't be frightened to lift," he advises. "Lifting heavy weights builds muscle, burns fat, shapes your body and it makes you feel amazing."

WHY IT'S GOOD FOR YOU

Joe says that menopause causes a series of changes that can be harsh on the body, affecting everything from sleep to joint health to bone and muscle loss. For this reason, he suggests switching the focus away from gruelling high-impact workouts and taking things slow and steady.

"Rather than doing high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions, slow things down and focus on controlled strength training," he says.

Not only can weights help rebuild muscle mass (which we gradually start losing after 30) it can also help to preserve bone density and reduce our risk of osteoporosis. Best of all, by sticking to a regular exercise routine, you'll also feel better.

"Really, it's essential for your mental health to stay active," he explains. "It makes you happier."

GETTING STARTED

The first step is finding a style of resistance training that suits you.

If you're not keen on signing up for a gym membership, there are plenty of exercises that you can still do at home.