12/06/2026
Why strength training now?
Often, the topic of conversation in menopause is dominated by osteoporosis and the loss of bone density, but there is something else that is critically important to consider as we age, and that is Sarcopenia.
Sarcopenia is the loss of muscle mass, strength and physical function as we age, and affects both men and women. Muscle loss happens because our bodies are slowing down with age, we become less efficient at producing proteins to repair and grow muscles, we begin to lead more sedentary lives, and our neuromuscular connections begin to degrade.
Oestrogen helps support muscle maintenance, repair and recovery, so the hormonal changes associated with menopause can accelerate muscle loss during this stage of life.
This is one of the major reasons why strength training vital. Strength training works by challenging muscles to adapt. In response to resistance, muscle fibres repair and grow stronger, helping to maintain or increase muscle mass even after menopause. Importantly, it’s never too late - women can continue building strength well into their 60s, 70s, and beyond.
Loss of muscle strength is a major contributor to poor balance, falls, and fractures in later life so preserving strength can significantly improve stability and confidence in movement. This in turn helps us maintain our independence because strong muscles allow us to perform everyday tasks such as carrying shopping bags, climbing stairs, lifting grandchildren, and getting up from a chair with ease. At the start we mentioned osteoporosis - and muscles help with that too. Strong muscles place healthy stress on bones, helping to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. Improved neuromuscular links between brain and body, because of strength training, can also lead to improved coordination.
Strength training also helps with your metabolism and weight management – but more about that another time…
Dr Vonda Wright, Orthopaedic surgeon and menopause advocate said ‘If you’re an 80 year old consistently lifting weights, you are functionally as strong as a 60 year old person who doesn’t’ – so remember, the strength training you do now is a real investment in your future.