Preventing Muscle Loss After 45: How to Stay Strong, Active, and Independent
Preventing Muscle Loss After 45: Step-by-Step Exercise Guide How to Use This Plan Frequency: 3 non-consecutive days/week (e.g., Mon–Wed–Fri). Sets & Reps: Start with 2–3 sets of 8–12 reps (or timed holds), rest 45–75 sec between sets. Tempo: 2 seconds to lift, 1 second pause, 2–3 seconds to lower. Breathing: Exhale on the effort (stand, push, pull), inhale on the return. Warm-Up (5 minutes): March in place → arm circles → hip circles → 10 bodyweight squats → 20-second calf stretch each side. 1) Squat (Bodyweight or Dumbbells) Targets : Quads, glutes, hamstrings, core Equipment: None (add dumbbells later) Step-by-step Stance: Feet shoulder-width, toes slightly out (5–15°). Brace: Lift chest, tighten core as if zipping up tight jeans. Hinge + Sit: Push hips back a little, then bend knees as if sitting into a chair. Depth: Lower until thighs are at least parallel (or as mobility allows) while heels stay down. Knees: Track over middle toes; don’t cave inward. Drive Up: Press thro...