Women over 40 are especially susceptible to osteoporosis, but they can maintain their health and mobility with persistent exercise.
As we age, we lose muscle mass and our caloric needs are reduced, so we can’t continue to eat like we used to. This is one of the reasons why it’s especially critical for women in their 40s to continue strength training.
Unfortunately, as we lose muscle mass, we become less pliable and our muscles start to tighten up. Instead of being like filet mignon, they are more like beef jerky. Our muscles don’t glide like they used to. This means we have to be smart about our workout and be more diligent about hydration.
We also become more susceptible to injury as we age, so we need to not overdo it. And, if we have an injury, it’s important to give our body time to heal.
Rita Matraia, founder and owner of The Core Connection, is a Certified Stott Pilates Instructor, a Certified Restorative Exercise Specialist, a Certified Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist, and a Healthy Foot Practitioner through the Nutritious Movement Center.