Strength Training Routines to Prevent Sarcopenia in Women over 70
The Biological Reality: Why Strength is Non-Negotiable
Starting around age 50, muscle mass begins to decline at a rate of about 1–2% per year. By age 70, this process can accelerate. This decline is often accompanied by “dynapenia,” or the loss of muscle power and strength.
For women, the post-menopausal drop in estrogen further complicates muscle protein synthesis. Strength training acts as the primary intervention, sending a signal to the nervous system and the endocrine system that the muscle tissue is still “required,” thereby triggering repair and growth.
The Three Pillars of Senior Strength
To effectively combat sarcopenia, a routine must focus on three specific elements:
- Multi-Joint Movements: Exercises that use more than one joint (like a squat) provide the most “bang for your buck.”
- Progressive Overload: You must gradually increase the resistance. If the weight doesn’t feel challenging by the last two reps, it isn’t heavy enough to stimulate








