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Over 50? Try These 15 Quick Strength Workouts to Get Results in 45 Days

These can all be done at home.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback

Strength training is important at any age, but especially after 50 when you might start to lose muscle mass. “Strength training may enhance your quality of life and improve your ability to do everyday activities,” says the Mayo Clinic. “Strength training can also protect your joints from injury. Building muscle also can contribute to better balance and may reduce your risk of falls. This can help you maintain independence as you age.” Here are 15 quick strength workouts to get results in just 45 days.


Squats

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Squats are a great strength training exercise that targets the lower body and part of the back. “One of the best things you can do is practice the squat,” exercise physiologist Joel Hardwick, ACSM EP-C, EIM, tells Piedmont Health. “It’s probably the most functional exercise and the one that you probably need most in your life.”

Walking Lunges

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Walking lunges target the lower body and help tone up the glutes and thighs. “Walking lunges are a great way to build lower body strength,” according to ASFA. “The movement of walking lunges works out the legs, thighs, and butt muscles. You can also use walking lunges to improve your balance and coordination and increase flexibility in the joints of your lower body.”

Push Ups

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Make sure to focus on the muscles in your stomach and butt when doing a pushup. “A lot of people forget that and instead squeeze their quads (quadriceps, in the upper leg),” exercise physiologist Katie Lawton, MEd, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “That can lead to sagging in the middle, which you don’t want — so, start with a strong plank, and that will help your core and protect your back.”

Glute Bridges

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Glute bridges are good for the lower body. “As you get more advanced, you can try single-leg glute bridges. One foot stays on the floor while you extend your other leg straight up to the ceiling. Then, lift and hold your bridge,” medicine specialist Michael Dakkak, DO, tells the Cleveland Clinic.

Chair Calf Raises

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This calve workout will help strengthen your legs. “Your calves help you run, walk, jump, and balance,” says the Cleveland Clinic. “Calf raises strengthen them. Begin by doing calf raises while sitting. As you get stronger, put something heavy on your lap to add weight or perform calf raises while standing behind your chair.”

Bent Over Rows

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Use a kettlebell for bent-over rows, which is a good upper-body workout. “Stand with your knees shoulder distance apart and bent slightly,” says the Cleveland Clinic. “Hinge your upper body at your hips. Hold one kettlebell with both hands. Keeping that hinged position and straight back, squeeze your shoulder blades and bend at your elbows to raise the kettlebell to your chest.”

Overhead Press

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This is good for shoulders, upper back, and arms. “Stand with your feet slightly apart,” says Harvard Health. “Hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height. With your palms facing forward, slowly lift upward until your arms are fully extended. Slowly lower the dumbbells to chest level. Do eight to 15 repetitions. Rest and repeat the set.”

RELATED: My 20 Secrets to Be the Best Shape of My Life at 50

Hip Extension

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“Wearing ankle weights, stand about 12 inches behind a sturdy chair,” says Harvard Health. “Using the back of the chair for balance, bend your trunk forward 45 degrees. Slowly raise your leg straight out behind you and then lower it to the floor. Repeat eight to 15 times with each leg. Rest and repeat the set.”

Knee Extension

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Knee extensions are good for the hips and legs. “Wearing ankle weights, sit in a firm, straight-backed chair with your knees six inches apart and a small towel folded under your thighs,” says Harvard Health. “Slowly lift your right foot until your leg is straight out in front of you. Lower your foot slowly to the floor. Do eight to 15 repetitions. Rest and repeat the set.”

RELATED: Over 50? Try These 10 Stretches to Improve Flexibility in Just 2 Weeks

Triceps Extension

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This exercise will help tone up and strengthen your tricep muscles. “To do a triceps extension, lie on your back with a dumbbell in your hand. Point your upper arm toward the ceiling, with your elbow bent to 90 degrees,” trainer Nicole Campbell tells the Mayo Clinic. “Slowly straighten the elbow, moving the weight upward. Then, slowly lower the weight to the starting position. You'll feel tension in the muscles in the back of your upper arm.”

Reverse Fly With Dumbbells

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Don’t arch or hunch your back when doing a reverse fly with dumbbells. “To do a reverse fly with dumbbells, sit with your knees bent and hold a dumbbell in each hand,” trainer Nicole Campbell tells the Mayo Clinic. “Lean forward, letting your arms hang down next to your calves with your elbows slightly bent. Slowly raise the weights until your elbows are level with your shoulders. Then, slowly lower the weights to the starting position. You'll feel tension in your shoulders and the muscles across your upper back.”

Step Ups

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Use a small stool or a stair for step-ups. “Pushing primarily through your lead foot, lift your body up onto the step. Then step backward to the starting position,” trainer Nicole Campbell tells the Mayo Clinic. When you're doing step-ups, keep your back straight and your abdominal muscles nice and tight. Make sure your foot is planted entirely on the step. It's fine to start with a low step height, as well.”

RELATED: I Lost 90 Pounds in 2 Years by Running and These Major Changes

Resistance Band Clamshells

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Use a resistance band for this exercise. “Lie on your side, one leg on top of the other with your knees slightly bent,” says the Cleveland Clinic. “Loop a resistance band around both thighs. Keeping your feet together, lift your top knee. (The motion should look like a clamshell opening.) Switch sides after each set.”

Side Leg Raises

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This will target your hips and legs. “Wearing ankle weights, stand behind a sturdy chair, using the back for balance,” says Harvard Health. “Slowly raise your right leg to the side until your foot is eight inches off the floor. Keep your knee straight, and slowly lower your foot to the floor. Do eight to 15 repetitions. Switch to the left leg. Rest and repeat the sets.”

RELATED: Lose Abdominal Fat in 100 Days with the MIND Diet

Don’t Forget Protein

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Along with your strength training workouts, make sure to get enough protein. “Strong, healthy, and happy: If that sounds like the future you imagine for yourself, it’s time to make your muscles a top priority,” says AARP. “Make sure you’re getting 25 to 30 grams of protein at every meal, and talk to your doctor about starting a muscle-building fitness program.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

Just because you are getting older doesn’t mean you have an excuse to let yourself go. Alicia Erikson, aka the “Midlife Maven,” makes it her mission to help women in their 40s and 50s get into the best shape of their lives. In a recent post, she joked about what she thought she would look like at her age. “How I thought I would rock my 50s vs how I’m actually rocking in my 50s,” she writes in the Instagram video, revealing her sensational six-pack. “Do you remember in your 20s thinking you will be ancient in your 50s? I do 🖐️Psych!!!!! We are just starting to truly blossom and come into our full badassery at 50! It’s the best!!! YES, you CAN!!” she added in the caption. How does the 51-year-old manage to look half her age? In another recent post, she reveals the workout technique that helped her achieve her goal of a forever young body.


Progressive Overload

“Not sure who might need to hear it, but this is the way, ladies! What is progressive overload? Progressive overload is a fundamental principle of strength training and muscle development. It involves gradually increasing the intensity, volume, or difficulty of your workouts to continuously challenge your muscles, prompting them to adapt and grow stronger over time,” she writes in the post.

RELATED:5 Breakfasts I Eat On Repeat to Drop Body Fat Fast

Here Are Examples of Progressive Overload

She offers the following examples of progressive overload:

  1. Increase the load.
  2. Increase the power (load x velocity)
  3. Increase the repetitions per set.
  4. Increase the sets per workout.
  5. Increase the number of workouts per week.
  6. Increase the range of motion.

Lift Heavy and Rest in Between

“If you want to build muscle and get the ‘toned’ look, lifting heavy and resting in between sets is key! I typically rest for 1-2 minutes. I follow a specific training block for at least four weeks at a time. You will not get bulky unless your diet reflects bulking goals!” she continues.

RELATED:This "20-10" Method Is the Simplest Way to Lose Belly Fat and Up to 40 Pounds

You Might Feel Bulky But Are Burning Fat

“You might FEEL bulky as you begin to lift weights, and your body is adjusting; your muscles may be retaining water, and you could be building muscle faster than you’re losing fat,” she says. “Give it time and patience, and pretty soon, you will be a muscle-building, fat-burning machine. It goes without saying your nutrition needs to reflect your goals!”

RELATED:I'm a Dietitian, and These Are the 12 Exact Steps to Lose Body Fat for Good

LISS Workouts Also Help

“Lifting and walking (or any LISS you love) has been the magic combo for me and so many! Even if you need to fit it into 10-20-minute chunks throughout your day! Again, this requires consistency (not perfection) and takes time. This is where you lock in and fall in love with the process. It becomes your lifestyle and you look forward to it every day!” she concludes in the post. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I Hit 60 and These 15 Anti-Aging Foods Keep Me Fit and Feeling 20 Years Younger.

Caroline Idiens carolinescircuits
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Are you over 40 and trying to lose weight? Getting in shape can be overwhelming. However, it doesn’t have to be. One personal trainer maintains that all you need to do is master five simple exercises. Caroline Idiens is a fitness influencer and personal trainer with over 25 years of professional experience helping clients achieve their fitness goals. In a new post, she reveals a few key moves to help you shape up. “5 exercises you need to do at 40+ to build strength💪🏻add weights as you progress,” she writes.

Squats

The first exercise? Squats. “Squats are a brilliant compound functional move building lower body strength and engaging the core,” she says. “You can do bodyweight squats or use weights/bands. This exercise works quadriceps, glutes, hamstrings, core.”

Lunges

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Next up, another glute buster, lunges, a “functional move,” she explains. “You can do forward, reverse & lateral lunges. This exercise works glutes, hamstrings, quads. Again add weights as needed.”

Push-Ups

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Another exercise that offers a lot of bang for its buck? Push-ups, “a brilliant bodyweight exercise that build upper body strength & engage the core. Modify as needed (e.g incline push-ups against the wall or a chair),” she says. “This exercise works your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core.”

Rows

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Rows, either with body weight or actual weights, as you progress. “Rows strengthen your back, improve your posture. Great functional move. They work the back muscles as well as engaging the arms & shoulders & core for stability,” she says.

Planks

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And last but not least, planks. They are “a great exercise for building upper body & core strength,” she says. “They work your deep core muscles.”

Lift Weights

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“Strength training is vital as you age. My passion has always been strength training, and never more so than today,” Caroline previously wrote for Sheer Luxe. “Once we hit 30, our bone density and muscle mass decrease. Strength training plays a significant role in preventing this loss and we can actually build new bone by using weights. This can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, which women are so susceptible to, especially post-menopause.”

There Are Lots of Benefits

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“Moreover, strength training gives you such a feeling of power in everyday life – it’ll help with sleep, anxiety, co-ordination and will also help you manage your weight,” she wrote, adding that it “won’t make you bulky,” despite popular misconception. “It’s a myth that using weights will make you bulky – unless you are using very heavy weights and dramatically changing your diet, this simply isn’t true. It’s also important to remember that you can’t spot reduce fat. Your body works as a whole and, whilst you can tone a particular area, working the full body consistently along with a sensible diet will make the difference.”

Science Supports Strength Training for Weight Loss

Mature athlete using rowing machine while working out in a gym.Shutterstock

According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and weight training help reduce body fat, preserve and increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Strength training may also help you:

  • Develop strong bones
  • Manage your weight
  • Enhance your quality of life
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Sharpen your thinking skills.

She Also Recommends Cardio

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“In an ideal world, combine weights with cardio,” Caroline adds. Why is it important to do both? “While you may burn more calories in a cardio workout, strength training builds muscle. The two aren’t mutually exclusive and, for a leaner, fitter body, you should combine the two. Cardio is essential for heart health and for building stamina and endurance. At the same time, when we lift weights, we build muscle, boost metabolism and reduce our risk of injury,” she says.

Diet Matters

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And, you can’t out-exercise a bad diet. “People think they can exercise, eat rubbish and still see great results,” she recently told The Daily Mail. “Sadly it doesn’t work like that. It’s about balance and moderation.” As for one main meal tip? “And protein with every meal – you need it for strength training,” she says.

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

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Caroline starts her day with tea, coffee, and a banana. Then, after her 9 am workout class, she has breakfast, usually scrambled egg and avocado on sourdough. For lunc,h she likes chicken salad. Dinner might be a teriyaki salmon noodle stir-fry. As for snacks, she might have fruit and a bit of chocolate in the afternoon. She also drinks a lot of water. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missI’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

You don’t need to spend hours at the gym or on the treadmill to lose belly fat and get into shape—just 10 minutes can make a huge difference. “Short bursts of activity burn more calories, increase metabolic rate, aaaand improve endurance and strength – all in less time. Simply ramping up your activity for a few minutes, a few times a day, can improve health,” sports medicine specialist Joshua Beer, DO, tells University Hospitals. Here are 12 10-minute workouts to burn fat and get fit.


Bodyweight HIIT Workout

@maiahenryfit

Bodyweight full body HIIT workout- all you need is 10 minutes ❤️‍🔥 at home circuit to get your heart rate up quick and burn those calories! #bodyweightworkout #bodyweighttraining #bodyweightexercises #athomeworkout #athomeworkouts #athomeexercise #tonedbody #tonedbodyworkout #weightloss #fatloss #calorieburn #fatlossworkout #hiitworkout #hiittraining #hiitcircuit #hiitwokout #hiit #viral #trending #gymfyp #fittok #gymtok

This workout from TikToker MaiaHenryFit will get your blood pumping. “Bodyweight full body HIIT workout- all you need is 10 minutes ❤️‍🔥 at home circuit to get your heart rate up quick and burn those calories!” she says.

Pilates Workout

@briannajoye_fitness

this one is for all my girlies who dont feel like standing up to workout today 😂🤍 #pilates #workout

TikToker Brianna Joye Kohn has the perfect 10-minute Pilates workout. “POV—I show you this 10-minute Pilates workout that will tone your core, sculpt your arms, and slim your legs,” she says.

10-minute Cardio

@alexxiusss

10 MINUTE CARDIO - These exercises are simple yet effective. You got this💪🏾 2 rounds: 🔥Beginner: 20 sec. Exercise- 40 sec. rest 🔥Intermediate 30 sec. Exercise- 30 sec. rest 🔥Advanced 45 sec. Exercise- 15 sec. rest #athomeworkout #athomeworkouts #cardio #cardioworkout #athomecardio #athomecardioworkout #fitness #workout #workoutmotivation #weightlossjouney

Try TikToker Alexius Ordaz’s 10-minute cardio workout. “These exercises are simple yet effective. You got this💪🏾 ✨,” she says.

Postpartum Workout

@getmomstrong

Hard time sneaking in a workout? Try this! 3 rounds. Generally sate and beneficial for moms with diastasis recti and prolapse. #quickworkout #morningworkout #10minuteworkout #bodyweightworkouts

TikToker Ashley (getmomstrong) has the perfect short workout for moms. “Hard time sneaking in a workout? Try this! 3 rounds. Generally, sate and beneficial for moms with diastasis recti and prolapse,” she says.

Ab Workout

@maiahenryfit

My go to ab workout to do at home that only takes 10 minutes and will give you a strong core/defined abs✨ reminder that abs are made in gym but will only be visible if you have a healthy diet paired! #abworkout #abworkouts #abworkoutchallenge #athomeabworkout #athomeabs #totalabs #coreworkout #sixpack #sixpackabs #abexercises #abexercise #fitness #gym #workout #flatstomach #flatstomachworkout #beginnerabs #abworkoutathome #abworkoutforgirls #beginnerabs #gymmotivation #motivation

MaiaHenryFit also has a 10-minute ab workout. “My go to ab workout to do at home that only takes 10 minutes and will give you a strong core/defined abs✨ reminder that abs are made in gym but will only be visible if you have a healthy diet paired!” she says.

RELATED: 10 Foods to Avoid That Cause Inflammation

Walking Workout

@petragenco

Get your steps in at home with this quick 10 minute beginner walking workout 💃🏽 #walk #walkingworkout #weightloss #beginner #fun #exercise #exerciseathome

TikToker Petra Genco has a great walking workout to burn fat. “Get your steps in at home with this quick 10 minute beginner walking workout 💃🏽,” she says. All you need are sneakers!

No Gym Needed Workout

@marralpn

This is For my girlies that don’t want to go to the gym💪🏾 Do each workout for 30 seconds on 15 seconds off for 5 rounds! #plussizeworkout #athomeworkout #beginnerworkout

Try TikToker Marralpn’s 10-minute workout designed to be accessible for people of any weight. “This is For my girlies that don’t want to go to the gym💪🏾 Do each workout for 30 seconds on 15 seconds off for 5 rounds!” she says.

Total Body Strength Training

@livelygirlfitness

10 minute total body workout 💪🏽 - Weighted march with dumbbell extended in front (1 minute) - Deadlift into upright row (1 minute) - Elevated lateral lunge (1 minute per side) - Iso bicep curl (1 minute per side) - Front raise + lateral raise (1 minute) - Wood chop (1 minute per side) - Sumo squat + hammer curl (1 minute) #totalbodyworkout

TikToker Rachel (livelygirlfitness) is sharing her total body strength training workout. Moves include weighted march with dumbbell extended in front and deadlift into upright row.

Wall Workout

@petragenco

Get your steps in at home with this quick 10 minute beginner walking workout 💃🏽 #walk #walkingworkout #weightloss #beginner #fun #exercise #exerciseathome

This wall workout from TikToker Lisa Morales Duke requires no equipment and will get those calories burned. “This was intense 🥵🔥🙌🏼 try it!” she says.

RELATED: Lose Abdominal Fat in 60 Days with the DASH Diet

Plank Workout

@maiahenryfit

Full body plank 10 minute challenge❤️‍🔥 #transformation #tranformationchallenge #fullbodyworkout #fullbodyexercise #fullbodyexercises #athomeworkout #athomeworkouts #athomeworkoutvideos #workoutathome #medicineball #tonedarms #coreworkouts #workoutchallenge #30daychallenge #30dayworkoutchallange #fitnessmotivation #athomeworkouts #fullbodytone #hiitworkout #hiitcardio #hiittraining #gymtok #viral #trending #fittok #gymtok #abworkout #flatstomach #flatstomachworkout

This plank workout from MaiaHenryFit will make you feel the burn in a very short amount of time! All you need is a good yoga mat. “Full body plank 10 minute challenge❤️‍,” she says.

Stairmaster Cardio Routine

@mdjfitness

10 MINUTE CARDIO ROUTINE!🔥✨ #gymworkout #cardioworkout #stairmaster

10 minutes is all you need for this stairmaster cardio workout from TikToker MDJFitness. “You’re gonna love it💘,” she says.

Couch Abs Workout

@ssanar.wellness

No matter how busy you are, everyone has 10 minutes! Save this and get it done💪 #homeworkoutsforwomen #coreroutine #fitness #fyp

Try this 10-minute ab workout from TikToker ssanar.wellness. “No matter how busy you are, everyone has 10 minutes! Save this and get it done💪,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Liz_Hilliard_5844
Liz Hilliard
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Liz Hilliard, 70, is living, breathing proof that age is just a number. The pilates instructor, who trains out of her studio Hilliard Studio Method, discovered the workout when she was 48, and completely transformed her approach to health. Over the years she has managed to learn a few things about longevity, revealing her secrets in an interview with Body Network.


Liz Used to Rely on Traditional Workouts

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Liz, who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, explains that she was athletic throughout her childhood and enjoyed playing basketball and other team sports. “Traditional workouts always felt boring and offered minimal results for the time and energy put into them, " she says. Until I was in my late 40s, I relied on tennis and walking as my main sources of exercise.

RELATED: I'm a Personal Trainer and These 5 Moves Banished My Clients' Bat Wings in Weeks

She Discovered Pilates at Age 48

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

“At age 48, I attended my first Pilates class and immediately felt incredibly challenged. I even had fun, which led me to become certified in Pilates,” she says. In 2002, she opened her first personal Pilates training studio. “It was a successful business, and my clients were seeing real results. However, at age 51, while going through menopause, I noticed despite my Pilates workout, my belly fat was increasing, and my overall strength was decreasing as well, aka flabby arms and sagging bottom."

Fusing Strength Training with Pilates Was a Game-Changer

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

"Inspired by my daughter, who was getting married and sculpting up for her wedding, I began researching heavy resistance training and hired my own personal trainer to try to sculpt my 51-year-old, menopausal body. We implemented heavy weight training, and I was determined to debunk the ‘bulking’ myth that most women feel about weightlifting," Liz says.

"The short story is that adding heavier resistance training to my core-centric Pilates workout began to sculpt my body in ways I hadn’t seen before using only traditional Pilates. That’s when I devised my Method. By incorporating heavy resistance with the core-centric exercises of Pilates, the Hilliard Studio Method was born."

She Shaved Inches Off Her Waistline

Slim young woman measuring her thin waist with a tape measure, close upShutterstock

Hillard, who has since authored the book "Be Powerful: Find Your Strength at Any Age" and co-hosts the Be Powerful Podcast, has remained 135 pounds throughout most of her life. “Muscle weighs more than fat, so I was replacing adipose tissue with muscle. My body was sculpting and changing at a rapid rate, especially given that I was in the throes of menopause. I lost inches around my waist, my arms became strong and sculpted, my abs flattened, and my glutes lifted. My entire body changed over the course of a year or less,” she says.

She Works Out 4 to 5 Times a Week

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

What are the most important things she learned about getting in shape? “Find a workout that you enjoy, or you won’t stick with it. Our lives are busy, so finding a workout that efficiently provides resistance combined with stretch and enough cardio is essential. I do my workout at Hilliard Studio Method 4 to 5 times a week because we change the workout daily, moving through compound exercising and utilizing different resistance tools like balls, gliders, and bands to continuously cause muscle confusion and avoid the dreadful plateau, both mentally and physically. We keep the work fun and evolving, low impact yet high intensity. The amazing side effect of getting in physical shape is that one’s mental and emotional outlook becomes far more positive. Strength training like I do at HSM is the fountain of youth,” she continues.

RELATED: This Woman Gave Up Processed Sugar and Got Into the Best Shape of Her Life at 54 By Doing These 4 Things

Get Your Steps In

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Her top workout suggestions? “Walk every day and everywhere. Get outside as often as possible to walk in nature. Bonus points if you walk with a friend. It’s built-in mental and physical therapy, which will not only help keep you fit but also lift your mood and keep your mind creative,” she says.

Strength Train Four Times a Week

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Also, strength training 4 times per week. “Strength training is an absolute requirement for healthy aging and simply means load-bearing exercises that require your muscles to engage. This can include anything from hand weights, resistance bands, weighted balls or any weighted object that taxes and builds skeletal muscles. Skeletal muscle strength allows the body to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight while setting the body up for success when inevitable accidents happen, so you are far less likely to avoid falling and breaking bones,” she says.

It’s Never Too Late to Get in Shape

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

What is her message for women out there who are struggling to get in shape? “It’s never too late, and you’re never too old or out of shape to start exercising. By simply getting out of your chair and going for a 20-minute walk, you’ll have the immediate feedback of feeling better physically, mentally, and emotionally,” she says.

Make Exercise Social

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

She also recommends connecting with friends to walk, workout, “and just talk every day,” she says. “Walking and talking with a friend or acquaintance is the perfect combo for both physical and mental health! Add resistance training to your workout, which can be as simple as a plank for as long as you can hold it until you work for up to a minute. Then go for 2 minutes or more. This is resistance training and incredible for your core and overall fitness! Then add a pushup on your knees, which is basically a moving plank that strengthens your arms, back, and core, not to mention flattens your abs. Do as many as you can, and try to work up to 20 or more. Mostly, just keep moving every single day. Our bodies are designed to move. The fastest way to early aging is to stop moving. The move it or lose it cliché is true.”

RELATED: I Help Women Over 35 Lose Weight: 9 Eating Errors You Must Stop Today

Try the Hilliard Studio Method at Home

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She says she “takes working out to the next level to produce results that are nothing short of a total mind-body transformation for women and men of all ages and stages,” she says. “Hilliard Studio Method group classes are designed to be taken on a regular basis. Each class is different from the day before. Our energetic and encouraging trainers utilize a variety of powerful movements and workout tools in a high intensity, low impact method driven by empowering, beat-driven music; think personal training in a group setting.” Her classes can also be done virtually via an online streaming platform and live Zoom classes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

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Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Just because you are getting older doesn’t mean you can skip your workout. As you age, it is actually more important than ever to build muscle – especially if you want to avoid injury. Nikolai Puchlov, Head Coach & Founder of Pro Kettlebell, offers Body Network a guide to strength training at age 60 with six moves, all of which can be done with a kettlebell. “Growing stronger with age is a pursuit worth embracing,” he says. “You may be 60 years young, but you don’t need to succumb to atrophy. Let me share with you six invigorating strength training moves tailored for seasoned individuals like yourself.”


The Squat Curl

Nikolai_Puchlov12Nikolai Puchlov

“The squat curl is a fantastic exercise that not only strengthens your biceps but also improves ankle and hip mobility,” says Nikolai. Here’s how to do it:

  • Use a kettlebell with a two-handed grip.
  • Sit down into a deep squat, aiming for the full range of motion.
  • Optionally, use a low stool to assist in maintaining proper form.
  • Perform curls from this position, keeping shoulders, elbows, and wrists aligned.

Narrow Push-Ups

Nikolai_Puchlov14Nikolai Puchlov

Nikolai recommends this exercise for the upper body.

  • Position your hands directly under the shoulders, elbows snug against the ribs.
  • Feel the burn as you perform push-ups, perhaps elevating your hands on kettlebells for an extra challenge.

Twisted Pullovers

Nikolai_Puchlov16Nikolai Puchlov

“Improve lat strength and back mobility with twisted pullovers,” says Nikolai.

  • Lie on your back with knees bent and legs twisted to one side.
  • Hold a kettlebell with both hands and perform a C-shaped motion from overhead to your lower chest.
  • Maintain parallel forearms throughout the movement.

RELATED:#1 Best Cardio Tip For People Over 40

The CPR Crunch

Nikolai_Puchlov15Nikolai Puchlov

No more “jelly belly” with the CPR crunch, says Nikolai.

  • Lie down, legs raised, and grasp a kettlebell with locked arms.
  • Pulse through short crunches, engaging those abs and aiming to lift just enough to feel those shoulder blades leave the mat.

Loaded Stop Squats

Nikolai_Puchlov13Nikolai Puchlov

If you want “legs like oak trees,” do the loaded stop squat, Nikolai recommends.

  • Hold that kettlebell and squat.
  • Pause at the bottom for a moment of reflection before rising again.

Suitcase Deadlifts

Nikolai_Puchlov11Nikolai Puchlov

“Build overall strength with suitcase deadlifts,” says Nikolai.

  • Stand between two kettlebells.
  • Keep the kettlebells between your heels and toes.
  • Maintain a flat lumbar and upright posture as you lift and lower the kettlebells.

Here Is Why Exercise Is Important for Older Adults

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health if you are an older adult. “It can prevent or delay many of the health problems that seem to come with age. It also helps your muscles grow stronger so you can keep doing your day-to-day activities without becoming dependent on others,” they say.

RELATED: Andrea Simulus Reveals “Best Program for a Lean and Sculpted Body”

Here Is How Much Exercise You Need

Nikolai_Puchlov_HeadshotNikolai Puchlov

The CDC recommends that adults aged 65 and older get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity, such as hiking, jogging, or running. They also need at least two days a week of activities that strengthen muscles.

💪🔥Body Booster: If you are over age 65, aim for two strength training workouts per week.

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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Losing weight doesn’t have to equate to starvation, deprivation, or eating bland meals. According to one fit mom and influencer, you can eat delicious dinners, and still drop weight fast. Ashley Smith is a fit mom and nutritionist who regularly shares weight loss tips and tricks with her followers. In a new Instagram post, she reveals some of her go-to recipes for healthy, fat-burning meals. “If I wanted to lose 10 pounds in the next 6 weeks here are the 5 dinners I would eat on repeat,” she writes.

1. Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Quinoa & Roasted Veggies

Protein: 42g, Calories: 378

Ingredients: 6 oz shrimp, ½ cup cooked quinoa, 1 cup zucchini & bell peppers (roasted), 1 tsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 clove garlic (minced), salt & pepper to taste.
Directions: Sauté shrimp with garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Serve over quinoa with roasted veggies.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

2. Grilled Chicken with Mashed Cauliflower & Green Beans

Protein: 48g, Calories: 339
Ingredients: 6 oz grilled chicken breast, 1 cup mashed cauliflower (made with ½ cup steamed cauliflower, ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk, and seasonings), 1 cup steamed green beans, 1 tsp olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.Directions: Grill the chicken, mash the cauliflower with almond milk and seasonings, and serve with steamed green beans.

3. Turkey & Spinach Stir-Fry with Brown Rice

Protein: 43g, Calories: 428

Ingredients: 5 oz lean ground turkey, 1 cup cooked brown rice, 1 cup sautéed spinach & mushrooms, 1 tsp coconut aminos, 1 clove garlic (minced), ½ tsp ground ginger, salt & pepper to taste.
Directions: Cook turkey with garlic, ginger, and aminos, then toss in spinach and mushrooms. Serve over brown rice.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

4. Spaghetti Squash with Ground Turkey Marinara

Protein: 41g, Calories: 314

Ingredients: 5 oz lean ground turkey, 1 cup cooked spaghetti squash, ½ cup marinara sauce, ½ cup sautéed mushrooms & zucchini, 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor), 1 clove garlic (minced), ½ tsp oregano, red pepper flakes to taste.
Directions: Brown the turkey with garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Add marinara sauce, mushrooms, and zucchini, and simmer. Serve over spaghetti squash and sprinkle with nutritional yeast.

5. Grilled Salmon with Roasted Asparagus & Wild Rice

Protein: 47g, Calories: 452

Ingredients: 5 oz grilled salmon, ½ cup cooked wild rice, 1 cup roasted asparagus, 1 tsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 clove garlic (minced), salt & pepper to taste.
Directions: Grill salmon with lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast asparagus and serve with wild rice. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

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I’m a Nutritionist and This is What I Eat in a Day to Stay Healthy and Fit
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Losing weight isn’t just about cutting calories and eating less. It also involves eating the right kinds of food. “If you're looking to lose weight, choosing nutrient-dense, high-fiber, and protein-rich foods can help keep you full and support your metabolism,” says Body Network’s Resident RDN, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CP. We asked her to put together a list of the top foods you should fuel up with to lose weight, and here are 10 of them.

Leafy Greens

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Leafy greens, including spinach, kale, arugula, Swiss chard, Romaine, and mustard greens, should be a mainstay in your refrigerator. “Low in calories but packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals,” she says. “Leafy greens are a high-volume food, which helps with satiety while keeping calorie intake low.”

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Eggs

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Eggs might not be cheap right now, but they offer a lot of bang for the buck in terms of nutrients. “High in protein to keep you full longer,” says Collingwood. “A lot of the nutrition is in the egg yolk, but so are many calories. Split the difference using some whole eggs and combine with a few egg whites.

Lean Protein

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Next up, you need to eat a lot of lean protein, including chicken, turkey, lean beef, seafood, and other fish, to lose weight. “Helps to preserve muscle mass during weight loss,” Collingwood explains. “Helps reduce hunger and keeps you satisfied.”

Greek Yogurt

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Another item to keep stocked up on for weight loss? Greek yogurt. “High in protein and probiotics for gut health,” she says. “Greek yogurt can help with appetite control and digestion.”

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Berries

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Berries, especially blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, and raspberries are also great for losing weight as they are rich in fiber and antioxidants. “Can satisfy sweet cravings with fewer calories,” says Collingwood.

Cruciferous Vegetables

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Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are another great option. “Low in calories but high in fiber and antioxidants and vitamins,” Collingwood says. “The high fiber content can help keep you full longer.”

Legumes

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Legumes, including lentils, chickpeas, and black beans, are essential for weight loss.

“High in plant-based protein and fiber which helps to keep you full for longer and can help stabilize blood sugar,” says Collingwood.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Oats/Oatmeal

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Oats and oatmeal should always be in your pantry. “Whole grain that is high in soluble fiber, which aids digestion and prolongs fullness,” explains Collingwood. “Can help to regulate blood sugar due to soluble fiber. Combine with a protein (make oatmeal with milk, add protein powder, make overnight oats with Greek yogurt) for a complete meal.”

Nuts and Seeds

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Nuts and seeds are great to have on hand for healthy snacking. Collingwood likes almonds, pistachios, walnuts, hemp, chia seeds, and flaxseeds. “Packed with heart-healthy fats, fiber, and protein,” she says.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Avocados

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And last on her list? Avocado. “High in monounsaturated fats that promote fullness. It also contains fiber and essential nutrients for weight management,” says Collingwood. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

Jon Williams | Fat Loss Expert
Over 50? You Should Avoid These 8 Foods
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

What you ate in your twenties, thirties, and forties to lose weight might not work as you age. According to an expert, some foods shouldn’t be on your plate in your fifties and beyond. Jon Williams is a fat loss expert who helps men and women lose 20-plus pounds of body fat. In a new Instagram post, he gets honest about fat loss and diet. “The fittest people I know who are in their 50s and 60s, avoid these 8 foods at all costs when they are trying to lose weight,” he writes.

Processed Sugars

The first no-no? Processed sugars. “High in calories and low in nutrients, they can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and increased risk of chronic diseases,” he says.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

White Bread

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While you don’t have to go on a no-carb diet to lose weight, you might have to ditch white bread. “Made from refined flour, it lacks fiber and can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, which is particularly concerning as metabolism slows with age,” says Williams.

Fried Foods

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Another type of food you can’t eat if you want to lose weight? Fried foods. “High in unhealthy fats and calories, they can contribute to heart disease and obesity,” he says.

Soda and Sugary Drinks

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Don’t drink your calories, suggests Williams. Soda and sugary drinks should be avoided. “Loaded with sugar and empty calories, they can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes,” he explains.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

High-Sodium Foods

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Salty foods might taste good, but generally, high-sodium items should be avoided. “Processed snacks and canned soups can contain excessive salt, which is linked to high blood pressure and heart issues,” says Williams.

Pastries and Cakes

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You don’t have to avoid everything sweet, but pastries and cake aren’t going to do you any favors if you are trying to slim down. “These are often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and refined carbohydrates, contributing to weight gain and health issues,” he says.

Trans Fats

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Read labels and avoid food with trans fats. “Found in many processed foods, these fats raise bad cholesterol levels and lower good cholesterol, increasing heart disease risk,” says Williams.

RELATED:I'm a Nutritionist and These are the Best Banana Recipes For Weight Loss

Alcohol

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Alcohol “in excess” isn’t good for you, and won’t help you lose weight. “While moderate consumption can be okay, excessive alcohol can lead to weight gain, liver issues, and other health problems,” he says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these20 Superfoods for People Over 50.