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Why Women Over 50 Need Strength Training More Than Ever

  • Writer: Lisa Mastracchio
    Lisa Mastracchio
  • Dec 27, 2023
  • 3 min read
Woman over 50 performing strength training exercises to build muscle and support healthy aging

If women were taught the impact of ageing with the decline of estrogen on their muscle mass and strength, the fear of getting “too bulky” would die fast and hard.


Our mission would change from ‘sculpted & toned’ to ‘strong  AF’.


After age 30, both men and women lose 8% of lean muscle mass each decade. And yeah, 30 is young, and 8% seems like nada.


Until you hit 50… and suddenly wonder how you’ve gained weight (cuz you eat the same way ) and you can’t seem to do the things you used to with the same energy and vitality.


Listen up...


How Estrogen Supports Strength and Muscle Growth


Estrogen is anabolic… it helps us to build muscle through strong muscle contractions of both power and strength. The very things we lose as we age.


Without it (which is the natural decline in the menopausal season), building muscle is harder to do.


Yet “skeletal muscle is the organ of longevity,” according to Dr. Gabriel Lyon


Our solution?


The Hidden Impact of Aging on Muscle Mass


Work on getting stronger to create the stimulus for your satellite cells to build and maintain muscle strength.


A yoga class or bootcamp circuit will not take you there.


These activities are great for stress reduction or as fun forms of movement and social connection.


But exclusively doing ONLY yoga, or barre, or circuits will NOT stimulate your muscle tissue growth. Sorry if you’ve been misled.


So much ‘menopause marketing’ exists now more than ever.. plugging supplements from supplements, hormone ‘resets’ to underwear.


In fact, it’s a 600$ billion market.


Don’t be fooled.


Do the thing that can absolutely have the biggest impact on your health, body composition, and yes, your hormones too… LIFT.


Hit compound exercises like…

The squat.

The deadlift.

The bench press.

The back row.

The push-up.


Because there is a massive difference between ‘anti-aging’ &‘aging well’.


I choose to the latter.

Be smart.

Train smart.

The best version of you is lifting a heavy barbell…because YOU can!


PS. Yes, every woman’s experience is unique. And if HRT is needed to offset debilitating symptoms, of course, that’s perfectly OK.


Strength Training Matters More Than Ever After 50 🏋️


Coach Lisa 💪


Frequently Asked Questions About Strength Training and Menopause


Why is strength training important for women over 50?

Strength training helps women maintain muscle mass, improve bone density, support metabolism, enhance mobility, and reduce age-related muscle loss. It is one of the most effective ways to support healthy aging and long-term independence.

How does menopause affect muscle mass?

As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, women may experience increased muscle loss, reduced strength, and changes in body composition. Strength training can help offset many of these effects.


Can lifting weights help improve metabolism during menopause?

Yes. Strength training helps build and maintain lean muscle mass, which supports metabolic health and calorie expenditure. Maintaining muscle is especially important as women age.

What are the best strength training exercises for women over 50?

Compound exercises such as squats, deadlifts, rows, bench presses, and push-ups engage multiple muscle groups and provide the greatest benefits for strength, function, and healthy aging.

Will lifting heavy weights make women bulky?

No. Most women do not produce enough testosterone to develop large amounts of muscle mass naturally. Strength training typically helps women build strength, improve body composition, and maintain muscle as they age.


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