Forget Cardio! Strength Training Is The Real Fountain of Youth After 40!

Feb 2, 2025

Discover why resistance training is your ultimate fitness ally after 40, surpassing cardio for fat loss and heart health. Learn about myokines and their brain-boosting benefits. Explore effective at-home exercises, proper form, and how to measure your progress. Uncover the truth about muscle building in women and why concerns about becoming 'bulky' are misguided. Get practical tips for safely advancing from beginner to advanced levels, and find out how to integrate strength training into your daily routine for lasting results.

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INSIGHT

Resistance Training Beats Cardio

Resistance training is more effective than cardio for fat loss, heart health, and longevity after 40.
It increases muscle mass which boosts metabolism and improves cardiovascular function.

INSIGHT

Myokines Boost Brain and Immunity

Contracting muscles release myokines which support brain health, mood, immunity, and reduce inflammation.
Resistance training thus benefits the brain beyond muscle and fat improvements.

ADVICE

Start With Baseline Measurements

Get baseline measurements like a DEXA scan or bioimpedance scale to track muscle mass, fat, and strength.
Test strength with push-ups and grip strength using a dynamometer for motivation and progress tracking.

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In this game-changing episode, I'm challenging everything you thought you knew about exercise after 40. Forget the old rules about cardio being queen – I'm sharing why resistance training is actually your secret weapon for burning fat, building stronger bones, and even creating new brain neurons. Drawing from my background in Exercise Physiology at USC and the latest research, I break down why it's never too late to start lifting weights (yes, even at 85!), and how to begin safely and effectively. You'll discover why those gym machines aren't just for twentysomethings, and how building muscle becomes your metabolic superpower. Plus, I reveal the surprising truth about getting "bulky" (spoiler alert: it's probably not what you think), and share my fool-proof strategy for starting your strength training journey today.

What you'll learn:

Why resistance training trumps cardio for fat loss, heart health, and longevity after 40
The fascinating science behind myokines and how they boost brain health and immunity
Essential baseline measurements to track your strength training progress
A practical breakdown of the three main movement patterns for total body transformation
How to progress safely from beginner to advanced resistance training
The truth about muscle building for women over 40 and why "getting bulky" is a myth
The optimal combination of resistance training and daily movement for best results

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Full show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/strengthtrainingafter40

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Hand Grip Dynamometer: https://amzn.to/48OI2a1

Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance

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