Upstream Strength Training Interventions to Improve the Ageing Trajectory of Women in Midlife

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Falls in later life are a major threat to healthy ageing. They can lead to pain, injury, and loss of independence. Falls have a significant impact on health services, both immediate hospital care and long-term aftercare. The 60+ age group is growing faster than any other age group, therefore problems related to falls will increase. Women express fear of falling more than men and they sustain more hip fractures from falls. Current approaches focus on older people who have had a fall or are at risk of falling. More proactive approaches are needed earlier in life.Muscle strength is an essential 'building block' for healthy ageing. Strength declines as we age but it can be maintained through exercise. Approximately half of all women aged 45 years and over, do no regular strength exercises. The aim of this project is to find ways to make it easier for women in midlife to do regular muscle strength training. This would enable them to arrive at the 'start line' of later life in better health and with greater physical reserves.We will work closely with women in midlife to understand their thoughts and opinions about strength training. We want to understand what makes it harder for them to engage in strength training and what might make it easier. We will co-create a range of potential ideas and solutions, these will be tested out with other women and with key partners including healthcare professionals, academics, designers, fitness professionals and people who influence policy.