Between the ages of 20 and 90, lean muscle mass can decrease by as much as 50 percent. With this muscle loss comes increased fat. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular weight training enhances muscle mass, which contributes to improved overall health and fitness. The benefits of regular training include: increased stamina; reversal of age-related declines in strength, bone density and muscle mass; joint flexibility; and weight management.

Mayo recommends two to three weekly weight-training sessions, with a day in between to give muscles a chance to recover.

For more information, visit www.mayoclinic.com.