RESISTANCE TRAINING

We lose muscle strength, mobility in the joints and bone density as we head into our 40s. Women are especially susceptible to these changes due to the reduction of oestrogen (a hormone that directly affects the function of musculoskeletal tissues) associated with the menopause. However, regular resistance training helps to mitigate the loss of the muscle we need in order to boost our metabolism and burn calories. It needs to be done at least two to three times a week and does not necessarily require gym equipment – think body-weight exercises, such as squats and press-ups. As you get fitter and stronger over time, more advanced load-bearing exercises with barbells or dumb-bells can be introduced. Be aware you may not see your weight tumbling: muscle weighs more than the fat it replaces.