A recent rapid review by Public Health England for UK CMOs review of physical activity guidelines emphasises the importance of regular strength and balance activities throughout the life course.
This document highlights the three key transition points of benefit from regular strength and balance activities. At age 18-24 bone and muscle gains are maximised; from 40-50 years strength and balance activities slow the natural decline; finally from 65 years onward activity helps maintain independence and operate above key functional thresholds.
Reference
Department of Health. Start Active , Stay Active: a report on physical activity from the four home countries’ Chief Medical Officers. London: 2011.
Public Health England. Muscle and bone strengthening and balance activities for general health benefits: in adults and older adults. PHE publication gateway reference: 2018207. July 2018
Deapartment of Health. UK Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity Guidelines. London: 2019.