health
Norah O'Donnell: 7 things I learned from trainer Kira Stokes
August 5, 2026 / 9:09 AM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Lifting heavier weights is crucial for building and maintaining muscle mass, which is vital for future health and preventing age-related decline.
- Women can lose significant muscle mass after 30 and bone density after menopause; strength training becomes even more critical with age.
- Muscle provides hormone regulation and protection for bones, allowing for continued freedom of movement.
- Bone loss is reversible, and exercises done in one's 50s and 60s can help prevent serious injury from falls.
- Balance exercises are important for quality of life and functional movement.
- Movement is therapy, benefiting both physical and mental health, and can be a way to process emotions.
- Proper form and posture are essential for preventing injury, starting with body awareness.
- Consistent movement, including 'movement snacks' of short exercise bursts, is valuable even with a busy schedule.