When Did I Get Weaker? Why Strength Matters More Than We Think as We Age

Have you ever caught a glimpse of yourself and thought,
When did I get weaker?

Not slower exactly. Not sick.
Just… less solid.

For many active adults in their 50s, 60s, and beyond, that realization comes quietly. You’re still busy. Still moving. Still doing the things you enjoy. But your strength is slipping, and your waistline is creeping up — even though nothing feels dramatically wrong.

That’s where Howard Benson found himself in his early 60s.

“I’d always been active,” Howard says. “But I realized I was losing muscle in my legs, arms, and shoulders while my middle kept expanding.”

A Season of Life

Howard traveled constantly for work — long flights, long drives, long meetings. He rode horses, golfed, and gardened, but over time, hours of sitting began to outweigh those activities.

“It was just the season of life when the body tells us it needs a reboot,” he says. “I wasn’t shocked. I just knew I had to do something.”

He began working out more consistently, even using hotel gyms while traveling. Then life intervened, as it often does. A long-diagnosed aortic valve required replacement. Years later, worn cartilage led to both shoulders being replaced. Each surgery required focused rehab.

Because Howard had stayed active, his recoveries went well. And when rehab ended, he made a commitment to structured strength training several days a week.

Now, in his third year of training, Howard will turn82in March.

“I can honestly say I’m in as good physical and mental shape as I was two decades ago,” he says. “This chassis of mine has a lot of miles on it — but I’m grateful I’m fit enough to keep doing the things I’ve always enjoyed.”

Why Strength Matters

Howard’s experience reflects what research and physicians continue to emphasize about aging well.

According to the Mayo Clinic, age-related muscle loss — known as sarcopenia — begins as early as our 30s and accelerates over time unless we actively train against it. Regular resistance training has been shown to improve strength, balance, mobility, and overall function well into later life.

In other words, simply staying “active” isn’t enough.
Strength matters.

For Howard, that strength shows up in everyday life, not just in the gym.

“I actually look forward to my workouts,” he says. “They’re challenging, but doable. I’m proud when I complete all the reps — and even more proud when I exceed them.”

Howard’s story isn’t about defying age or chasing youth. It’s about listening when the body sends a message — and responding with intention.

If you want to travel, play, move confidently, and continue doing the things you love for years to come, strength is part of the equation.

At Evolution Fitness & Wellness, we help people build strength thoughtfully, progressively, and with real life in mind — so they can keep doing what matters most for as long as possible.