The Power of Strength Training
What I’ve Gained and What You Can Too
Three times a week, I strength train—not for the now, but for my future self. And while I do it for tomorrow’s version of me, the benefits are obvious today.
At nearly 68, I’m doing exactly what I set out to do. I can easily climb a mountain, whether solo or with friends. When I’m with younger companions, I often find myself leading the pack. Thanks to the strength I've built, my arthritic knee and weak ankle tendon now work in harmony. As I climb, my core keeps me upright, effortlessly supporting my knee as I push it higher to reach the next peak.
Photo by Katie Dyer
Strength Training Transforms Everyday Activities
Strength training doesn’t just improve athletic feats—it makes everyday tasks easier. One of my yoga students, for example, uses yoga to support her gardening. She can move mulch, kneel to weed, maneuver her wheelbarrow, and manage her sprinklers with agility, all thanks to her yoga-enhanced joint mobility.
Another client, with tight hamstrings, utilizes my animal-inspired mobility drills to help her lift herself onto her horse and dismount gracefully. Later, she plays with her grandkids without a second thought.
Recovery and Longevity Through Strength Training
Strength training can also aid in the recovery from injuries. One of my active clients tore her rotator cuff while working on her boat. She was diligent in following her physical therapist’s prescribed exercises three times a day for six months. While in physical therapy, she worked with me. After completing her rehab, she had regained the range of motion to her shoulder height. But through our continued work, we took it a step further, restoring her range of motion all the way to head height.
Why You Need Strength Training Now
The most practical reason to strength train is to maintain your independence. I work with clients who were so undertrained that they lost the ability to stand up from a chair. Strength training can rebuild that strength. It also improves bone density and metabolism. In fact, two of my clients have seen improvements in their DEXA scans through weight training. Personally, I weigh the same now as I did at 30, all thanks to strength training.
Beyond these physical benefits, consistent training also has a positive impact on my mental health. My mood, brain function, and sleep have all improved over time.
How to Start Strength Training Today
If you’re not yet strength training, the thought of getting started can feel overwhelming. But you don’t need a gym or a pile of equipment. Start with bodyweight exercises. To help you get going, I’ve created a free PDF with ten easy-to-follow exercises you can begin today.
Conclusion: A Stronger Future Awaits You
Strength training isn’t just about building muscle—it’s about building a life where you can thrive, not just survive. It’s about reclaiming your independence, boosting your metabolism, and reducing your risk of injury. More than anything, it’s about preparing your body for a future that’s active, vibrant, and strong. Don’t wait for tomorrow—start today. Open that free PDF.