How to improve muscle mass over 40

Many men and women over the age of 40 are prone to gaining that mid-life tire. This is due to a slowing metabolism as we age. It is entirely normal, but there is a way to reduce it and combat sluggish metabolism. As we age and our metabolism slows down we also tend to lose muscle mass. Because of this slowing metabolism in the middle years we also tend to lack much needed energy to help control it.

You can improve muscle mass over 40, but you must push yourself, work hard and rise above it. Once we get past a certain point and build up muscle mass our metabolism starts to pick up because muscle tends to burn more calories than fat and this also increases our metabolism.

The above facts are especially important for women as they have the added negativity of menopause. Women over 40 are most likely entering perimenopause, which is the precursor for menopause. This stage of perimenopause sometimes goes on for years before women actually are menopausal.

With this comes additional abdominal fat for women. Perimenopausal or menopausal women have a lot of strikes against them and this mid life, over 40 stage can be even more of a challenge for them.

Some men and especially women are reluctant to build muscle mass for fear of adding bulk, which some feel defeminizes women. This is not possible because women lack the needed testosterone at high levels to build bulky muscle mass. A woman will more than likely just gain some curves, which certainly maintains a feminine figure.

Not only do women lose muscle mass when they are over the age of 40, but bone density as well. By improving their muscle mass and all over muscle tone a woman can reverse the effects of this. Not only will you feel better, you will look better and be healthier.

When attempting strength training do not rush through your regimen, but instead taking it slowly. This will make your muscles work more slowly, but harder and gain more muscle benefits.

Improving your muscle mass is a very possible goal. Achieving this goal requires hard work, determination, perseverance, consistency and patience. Your improvement will not be noticeable overnight. In fact, it will probably take months before noticing any difference in your appearance outwardly. The good thing is that well before that you will feel the physical effects by enjoying more energy and strength in your body.

Before starting any type of fitness regime it is always recommended to consult your primary care physician for any limitations that you need to take.

RESOURCES

Bodybuilding.com: Weight Lifting over 40
http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/over40_beginner_training_tips.htm

DaveDraper.com: Training over 40
http://www.davedraper.com/article-330-training-over-40.html

Prevention: The Essential Over 40 Workout
http://www.prevention.com/fitness/strength-training/lose-weight-essential-over-40-workout