The StrongWomen Program is an evidence-based strength-training program developed by the staff of the Hancock Center at the Friedman School. The primary objective of the StrongWomen Program is to help communities nationwide to implement safe and effective strength training programs for midlife and older women. At the core of the model is the StrongWomen Toolkit, which comprises the primary functional materials to be used by community leaders to start programs within their town or county. The Toolkit works in a stepwise fashion covering topics ranging from program promotion, when to gain medical clearance, to a comprehensive exercise prescription and easy-to-use nutrition information for older adults. In addition to containing all of the information and resources a community would need to begin and maintain the StrongWomen program, the Toolkit also provides information on fostering leadership and developing community projects such as working with local agencies to make neighborhoods more conducive to physical activity initiatives, such as an older adult walking program.
Program Benefits
The benefits of strength training for older women have been studied extensively and include:
- Increased muscle mass and strength
- Improved bone density and reduced risk for osteoporosis and related fractures
- Reduced risk for diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, depression, and obesity
- Improved self-confidence, sleep and vitality