SPECIAL SECTION: HEALTH & FITNESS
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Health experts are unanimous: strong bodies age better. Here’ s how to start strength training.
BY KIMBERLY GILLAN
Y
ou’ ve probably heard strength training is an important piece of the wellness puzzle. Not only is it associated with strong, lean bodies, but it also enhances posture, joint stability and coordination so you move more efficiently and with greater confidence each day.
It sounds good in theory, but knowing where to start can be a minefield. How heavy should you lift? How many repetitions? Is body weight exercise enough or do you need to hit the gym? Does the burn from Pilates count?
Strength
We’ ve asked the experts to share a simple approach to strength training that anyone can follow, no matter your age or stage of life.
Why strength matters
Whether you use weights, resistance bands, machines or body weight, your body will thank you for subjecting muscles to a little burn.“ Strength training can increase muscle mass and bone density, enhance balance and physical performance, reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and chronic diseases, and even improve mental health,” says Laith Cunneen, physiotherapist and managing director of Peak Physio, one of NSW’ s fastest growing providers of physiotherapy services.“ It also supports healthy ageing by maintaining strength, mobility and independence well into later life.”
Building strength is not just for men looking to bulk up; there are plenty of health benefits for women, too.“ Strength training can also support pregnancy, postnatal recovery and perimenopause transitions,” says Jackson Gray, strength
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22 | JAN / FEB 2026 COSTCO CONNECTION