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

Lead Research Organisation: Sheffield Hallam University
Department Name: College of Health, Wellbeing & Life Sci

Abstract

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.

Publications

10 25 50
 
Description This qualitative co-design study has now concluded. It explored women's experience of midlife and their experience of and attitudes towards strength training. Key findings include:
-Midlife presents many challenges including heavy burden of caring for older and younger relatives, new health concerns/changes, menopause, work challenges
-Exercise is known to be helpful but strength training is perceived as not accessible
-The health benefits of strength training were not well known

Design techniques were used, including creation of personas and storyboards. Design principles were established and we co-designed a blueprint for a strength training intervention for women in midlife.
Exploitation Route We have secured Zinc/UKRI Catalyst Accelerator 'Follow-on Funding' to further develop a commercial product.
Sectors Healthcare

Leisure Activities

including Sports

Recreation and Tourism

 
Description This is work in progress as we have now received follow-on funding that will enable impact within corporate wellbeing arena.
First Year Of Impact 2022
Sector Healthcare,Leisure Activities, including Sports, Recreation and Tourism
Impact Types Societal

 
Title Bia app 
Description We co-designed a blueprint for a new women's health app. We then worked with a third party to build a prototype app and the tested it as part of a research project. 
Type Of Technology Webtool/Application 
Year Produced 2023 
Impact The app is still on a beta version, but the initial research findings indicate that women found it acceptable and that it helped them to exercise regularly. 
 
Description Nike European Headquarters 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact I visited Nike at the request of Westfield Health, to share the insight and learning from the project.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2024