GILL’S POWERING THROUGH

It may be surprising that women benefit more than men from strength training especially after they reach middle age, but Gill Plant is living proof.

The 61 year old has a busy life but knows the importance of making time to stay strong physically and mentally. “I work full time and have grown up children and grandchildren I want to spend time with, but I always fit in an hour’s training a couple of times a week.”

She joined a jogging group while caring for her dad towards the end of his life. “I’m so glad I was able to look after him at home, but I had very little time left for exercise or seeing friends. Jogging with other people helped me in both ways. Then during lockdown a neighbour was getting rid of a cross trainer and asked if I wanted it. I found I really enjoyed weights training.”

Gill uses dumbbells but says water bottles are just as effective. “I focus on top down loading, lifting the weights vertically above my head or lifting a barbell onto my shoulders. For women it’s the quickest, most effective way to build strength. Pull ups, squats and lunges are all important as well to protect the areas most affected by hormonal changes after menopause.

“It’s great for beating stress too – a few minutes with the punch bag really does clear my mind!”