But there are signs of change. The UK Health and Social Care select committee is currently examining how physical activity can support healthy ageing, with strength training forming part of the discussion. If acted upon, these MPs’ recommendations could influence future investment in community exercise programmes and support services.
Campaigns such as the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy’s Stronger My Way also aim to increase awareness and confidence around strength training.
The next step is to translate growing awareness into practical action. For most adults, this means aiming to do muscle strengthening activities at least once or twice a week, targeting the major muscle groups of the legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms. Many people can begin at home using body weight exercises, then gradually increase the difficulty as their strength improves.
Our work has shown that older people are willing to try strength training, even if they have never done it before, when exercises are tailored to their needs and supervised by qualified professionals. It is never too late to begin. Research shows that even people in their 80s and 90s can build or maintain muscle strength with appropriate support.
Maintaining muscle strength is one of the most accessible, effective and low-cost ways to influence how well we age. The ability to rise from a chair, steady yourself on uneven ground or carry a bag of groceries may seem ordinary, but it is deeply meaningful. These small acts underpin independence and dignity.
Strength training is not about aesthetics or performance. It is about preserving function, confidence and your quality of life for as long as possible.
Christopher Hurst is Senior Research Associate at Newcastle University. This commentary first appeared on The Conversation.