Strength After 50: A Practical Plan to Build Muscle and Stay Independent

To counter age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia), especially accelerated by menopause, women over 50 should lift weights three days a week, targeting legs, back, and core with 6–12 reps and 3–5 sets per exercise. Start with proper form, warm up 15–20 minutes and cool down 10–15, progress gradually from bodyweight to weights, and include mobility work and stretching. Also emphasize protein intake (about 25–30 g per meal) to support muscle repair and growth, and adopt a mindset that exercise preserves independence and quality of life.