How to increase muscle growth after 60 with these 10 simple exercises

As we age, maintaining a strong, healthy body becomes more important than ever. While muscle mass naturally declines, it’s never too late to turn things around.

Ready to discover easy, fun exercises that can help you build strength at any age?


Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the exercises, let's talk about why muscle mass is so crucial at this stage of life.

Muscle strength is the unsung hero of mobility, balance, and the ability to perform everyday activities with ease.

It also plays a vital role in boosting metabolism, supporting joint health, and reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

Plus, let's not forget the confidence that comes from feeling strong and capable!


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These 10 easy exercises are designed to target major muscle groups. Image source: Kampus Production/Pexels.


Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: the exercises.

These 10 movements are specifically chosen for their low-impact nature and their ability to target key muscle groups that will help you stay strong and independent.

1. Bodyweight Squats



Source: PureGym/Youtube.


Squats are the quintessential exercise for lower-body strength. They work your thighs, hips, buttocks, and even your core. Here's how to do them safely:
  • Stand with feet hip-width apart, toes pointing forward.
  • Lower your body back and down, as if you're sitting in an invisible chair.
  • Keep your back straight and chest lifted, ensuring your knees don't go past your toes.
  • Push through your heels to stand back up.
  • Aim for 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions.

2. Wall Push-ups



Source: Leap Fitness/Youtube.


Wall push-ups are a gentler version of the classic push-up, perfect for building upper body strength without the strain:
  • Face a wall, standing a little farther than arm's length away, feet shoulder-width apart.
  • Place your hands flat against the wall at shoulder height and width.
  • Bend your elbows to bring your body towards the wall, keeping your feet firmly planted.
  • Push back to the starting position.
  • Complete 3 sets of 10-12 repetitions.

3. Seated Knee Lifts



Source: Vive Health/Youtube.


Strengthen your core and hip flexors with this simple seated exercise:
  • Sit in a sturdy chair with your feet flat on the ground.
  • Slowly lift one knee towards your chest while keeping your back straight.
  • Lower your foot back to the floor and repeat with the other leg.
  • Do 3 sets of 12 repetitions for each leg.


4. Bicep Curls with Light Dumbbells



Source: Central Athlete/Youtube.


Bicep curls are fantastic for arm strength, which is essential for lifting and carrying:
  • Hold a light dumbbell in each hand, arms at your sides, palms facing forward.
  • Curl the weights up towards your shoulders, keeping your elbows tucked in.
  • Lower them back down with control.
  • Perform 3 sets of 10-12 repetitions.

5. Step-ups



Source: Cornerstone Physiotherapy/Youtube.


Step-ups mimic walking up stairs, a daily activity that's great for leg strength and balance:
  • Stand in front of a sturdy step or bench.
  • Step up with one foot, then bring the other foot up to meet it.
  • Step back down and repeat, alternating the leading leg.
  • Aim for 3 sets of 8-10 repetitions on each side.

6. Shoulder Press with Resistance Bands



Source: SKLZ/Youtube.


Shoulder presses will help you maintain upper body strength, crucial for tasks like reaching overhead:
  • Stand or sit with a resistance band under your feet, holding the ends with both hands.
  • Start with your hands at shoulder level, elbows bent.
  • Press your hands upward, extending your arms fully.
  • Return to the starting position with control.
  • Complete 3 sets of 10-12 repetitions.

7. Glute Bridges



Source: Vive Health/Youtube.


Glute bridges target your buttocks and lower back, which are key for posture and reducing back pain:
  • Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat on the floor, and arms at your sides.
  • Lift your hips towards the ceiling, squeezing your glutes at the top.
  • Lower your hips back down slowly.
  • Do 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions.


8. Side Leg Lifts



Source: eHowFitness/Youtube.


Side leg lifts are excellent for hip stability and preventing falls:
  • Stand next to a wall or chair for support.
  • Lift one leg out to the side, keeping your body straight and toes pointing forward.
  • Lower it back down and repeat on the other side.
  • Perform 3 sets of 12 repetitions per leg.

9. Standing Calf Raises



Source: Rehab My Patient/Youtube.


Calf raises are simple yet effective for lower leg strength and ankle stability:
  • Stand upright, feet hip-width apart.
  • Push up onto your tiptoes, raising your heels off the ground.
  • Lower back down with control.
  • Aim for 3 sets of 15 repetitions.

10. Bird Dogs



Source: CORE Chiropractic/Youtube.


Bird dogs strengthen your core, back, and glutes, improving overall stability:
  • Start on your hands and knees, with wrists under shoulders and knees under hips.
  • Extend one arm and the opposite leg, keeping your body in a straight line.
  • Hold for a moment, then return to the starting position.
  • Alternate sides, completing 3 sets of 8-10 repetitions on each side.


The key to reaping the benefits of these exercises is consistency.

Aim to incorporate them into your routine at least 2-3 times per week.

Remember, it's not about intensity; it's about building a sustainable practice that keeps you feeling strong and energetic.

So let's get moving and show the world that age is just a number, and strength is timeless!
Key Takeaways

  • Engaging in strength training through simple, low-impact exercises can help over-60s counteract muscle mass decline and maintain strength, mobility, and quality of life.
  • These 10 easy exercises are designed to target major muscle groups, improve balance, and support overall health for individuals after 60.
  • Each exercise is explained with step-by-step instructions to ensure they can be performed safely and effectively at home.
  • Consistent practice of these exercises can lead to significant benefits, including enhanced muscle strength, better bone density, and improved bodily function, without putting undue stress on the joints.
Have you tried any of these exercises? Do you have a favorite workout routine that keeps you feeling youthful and strong? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

Let's inspire each other to stay active and embrace the strength of our silver years!
 

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