If you’re aiming to maintain or build strength as you get older, focusing on basic exercises might be your key to success. We consulted Roger Montenegro, CSCS, head coach and owner of Made Possible Personal Training in St. Pete, Florida. He outlines various classic exercises that can keep you stronger than most people in their 30s, even well after you turn 50.

“The ‘secret’ isn’t about chasing after new trendy exercises. It’s about performing the basics effectively and consistently,” Montenegro states. “Consistency is crucial! While the body changes with age, the fundamental principles of building strength remain the same.”

That’s why we’ve rounded up the most tried-and-true strength-building moves to weave into your workouts, straight from a pro.

​​6 Classic Exercises To Build Strength as You Age

Squat

“This exercise enhances leg and core strength, which is essential for everyday activities. Being able to stand up and sit down unaided is one of the greatest indicators of independence,” Montenegro mentions.

1. Stand tall, feet shoulder-width apart on the floor.
2. Extend your arms in front of you or place your hands on your hips.
3. Bend at the knees and hips to lower into a squat.
4. Descend until your thighs are parallel to the floor.
5. Press through your heels to return to standing.
6. Perform 3 sets of 8 to 12 reps.

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Romanian Deadlift

“This exercise strengthens the posterior chain, which helps protect the lower back and improves posture,” Montenegro tells us. “A strong backside is also key for preventing falls.”

1. Stand tall, feet hip-width apart, with a dumbbell in each hand.
2. Bend your knees slightly and hold the weights in front of your thighs.
3. Press your hips back as you lower the dumbbells down your leg. Maintain a straight back as you do so.
4. Squeeze your glutes to stand up tall.
5. Complete 3 sets of 6 to 10 reps.

Pushup

“This exercise works the chest, shoulders, and triceps while also challenging core stability,” Montenegro points out. “An incline variation reduces wrist and shoulder strain.”

1. Place your hands on a workout bench or bar.
2. Lower your chest toward the surface.
3. Press back up.
4. Perform 3 sets of 6 to 12 reps.

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Resistance Band or Dumbbell Row

“The row counters the forward posture that often comes with age and keeps the upper back strong for lifting, pulling, and carrying,” Montenegro notes. “We really focus on targeting feeling the lat muscles when doing this—[you] should not feel the bicep working!”6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

1. ​​Anchor a resistance band at chest level.
2. Stand tall, facing the anchor point.
3. Hold the handles with both hands.
4. Bend your elbows and pull the band toward your body.
5. Squeeze your shoulder blades together.
6. Extend your arms back to the start position.
7. Perform 3 sets of 8 to 12 reps.

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Overhead Press

“The overhead press maintains shoulder strength and mobility for everyday reaching, lifting, and carrying,” Montenegro says.

1. Hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder level, palms facing inward.
2. Press the weights overhead, extending your arms.
3. Use control as you lower the weights to shoulder height.
4. Perform 3 sets of 8 to 12 reps.

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Loaded Carry

“This move builds grip strength, core stability, and total-body coordination. It is simple but powerful for keeping everyday strength high,” Montenegro explains.

1. Hold a heavy dumbbell in each hand at your sides.
2. Start walking forward, then backward.
3. Your torso should be kept still while walking. Do not move your trunk as you brace your core.
4. Complete 3 rounds of 20 to 60 seconds.

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Alexa Mellardo