Strength Training Over 40: A 6-Week Program to Build Muscle and Agility Paperback – June 30, 2020

This book will be my "Go-To" training manual this Fall. I am thrilled to have purchased a copy written by the very inspirational author that I have 'followed' quite some time on Social Media. Alana Collins certainly practices what she preaches as evident by her stellar figure, happy disposition and compassionate nature. The book is easy to read and well organized. Part 1 relays basic info about our bodies-muscles, bones, our brain health, hormones and their effect on the aging process. She also talks about the importance of strength, balance, and mobility, all very important as we go on. Part 2 has an easy to understand nutrition component, as well as quite a few suggestions for light meals and snacks which are easy to prepare without a lot of prep-work in the kitchen, (which I love!) She also touched upon supplements and the importance of drinking water, getting enough sleep, and recovery. Finally, the reader is asked to find their motivation for staying fit and strong. Is it to interact with your children/grandchildren? Staying strong enough to go to the beach or ski slopes, instead of watching from the sidelines. The third chapter focuses on mastering the moves that will be incorporated in the 6-week program which is outlined in Part 2. You'll learn the difference between a static and dynamic stretch, and when you should do them. The author then provides a wide assortment of exercises with illustrations using free weights, (dumbbells), resistance bands, our own body weight, gym machines and a stability ball. I found the illustrations helpful and the instructions very thorough. Chapters 4-9 lays out your actual program and gives you the option to either work out at home or the gym, using the exercises in the book. She talks about the importance of choosing a weight that creates real effort by your last reps and also gives you instruction on the correct number of reps. At the end of each chapter, you'll have a self Check-In worksheet and a place to take notes. Alana offers words of encouragement throughout the book and also provides some encouraging quotes to keep you motivated. In the back of the book, she provides some additional tools, including fitness-related websites, A couple of YouTube channels, and various books about strength training. All of these are very helpful and convenient when implementing the program. Strength Training over 40 is exactly what I need at this unique and special time in my life. I can't wait to get started!

I have found the information helpful for planning a beginner weight lifting routine. Although my use has been from home, the author does include gym options for the workouts. Because I was more advanced than the starting point of this book, I skipped ahead to week five. However, it is laid out in such a way that it’s easy to use the book for planning on your own.

I decided I wanted to build new lifestyle habits in my 40s, and working out was one. I needed something I could fit into a busy schedule that could also be done at home on the cheap (that pandemic life). I wanted to keep up with my kid while she's young, to sleep better... and yeah, to not look 40. This book DELIVERED. I extended the program ON MY OWN, and am now 12 weeks into a regular and challenging exercise routine. And I am uncoordinated, and LAZY!!! If this sounds like you, too, check out the Pros of this book:*you can do a full home or gym routine*minimal equipment needed (barbells and a band)*you only need a small space for workouts, great for apartment life*tons of ideas for modifications*clear illustrations and descriptions of moves*options on how to build your own routine*not judgy or preachy*quick overview on nutrition, but it's NOT the focus of this book*minimal cardio*very gradual approach (like 2xs a week for 30 min then up from there)Really, I think the only con is buying barbells (I had some left over from college days, but I ended up needing 4 different sets by the end of the routine, which added up).Can't say enough how shocked I am that this was sustainable for someone like me. I feel strong and I look pretty damn good too! I hope you also find the spark you need. For me, this book was it :-)

Being that I'm over 40...I knew this would be easier on my knees. I love the format, telling me exactly what to do each week - but giving options for easier/harder. I am having to repeat weeks, but I work up a sweat and feel like I'm accomplishing something every time I do. The pictures are great, and it shows easy reference back to the specific page to see exactly how to do something if I forget. I got coil bound and love it.

This book is easy to follow and has an excellent exercise plan for people like me that have abandoned strength training. I have been trying to get back into building my strength, and this book includes a wonderful 6-week program. In addition to the exercise program, I like to focus on individual muscle groups throughout the week, and this book provides good variations of strength building at home with minimal equipment, with resistance bands, and at the gym.

This book is an excellent basic program for an older person who wants to take up strength training. The program is simple and straightforward. The author communicates effectively without too much exercise theory and the advanced anatomy and physiology found in a lot of workout books. If you are looking to get your older body in shape this is a great place to start.

chapter 4 thru 9 is a complete 6 week routine

This book helps. When I can’t work out in the gym(reasons), I do low impact cardio and yoga. I like to reflect on this. I want to get in shape/be healthy. Stretching/strengthening feels good, and it’s empowering. Thank you. Spoiler alert: I’ve dropped a size, inches(glad it’s not my height😜), and pounds, but most importantly I’m more toned💪🏻also, I like a physical book. I’m old school;)