Question 90 of 433
I am over 60 and have never lifted. Is it safe to start?
The short answer
Yes. With sensible progression, strength training is one of the safest and most valuable things an older adult can do.
Start with a physical therapist or a qualified trainer for a few sessions if you can. Learn the movements with light loads. Add weight slowly. Soreness is normal; sharp joint pain is not. If you have heart disease, uncontrolled blood pressure, or osteoporosis, talk to your doctor first, not to get permission to skip it, but to tailor it. Dr. Vonda Wright’s Unbreakable is a good guide, especially for women.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
ROBUST HUMAN TRIALS — Older adults: progressive resistance training improves strength; supervision and tailoring affect safety.Evidence grade (draft mapping)ARobust human trialsPart 6, Q90 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.