StrongPeople Strong Bodies

The StrongPeople Strong Bodies Program includes progressive resistance training, balance training, and flexibility exercises. Classes typically have 8 to 12 participants and last approximately 45-60 minutes. The curriculum includes two sets of resistance training routines, each with 8 to 10 exercises that can be used within the program. Both routines begin with a 5 to 10 minute warm up that may include walking, marching, or light calisthenics (e.g. toe touches). The resistance training exercises work all of the major muscles groups, utilizing a combination of dumbbells, adjustable ankle weights, and body weight. Classes conclude with a 5 to 10 minute cool-down that includes upper and lower flexibility exercises. Generally, classes meet twice per week for 12-week sessions.

StrongPeople Strong Bodies is a community-based strength training program aimed at mid-life and older individuals. The benefits of strength training for older individuals 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; and improved self-confidence, sleep, and vitality.

In a randomized controlled trial in Montana, intervention participants (n=83) experienced significantly greater improvements in aerobic endurance, upper body strength, lower body strength, exercise-related social support from friends, and attitudes toward exercise, compared to control participants (n=84).

4000 leaders have been trained to implement the program.

Example peer-reviewed publications and results are listed below:
Seguin-Fowler RA, Grocke M, Graham ML, Tarabochia D, Sriram U, Eldridge GD. Effects of StrongPeople Strong Bodies on functional fitness: a community-based randomized trial. Transl J Am Coll Sports Med. 2021.

Seguin RA, Heidkamp-Young E, Kuder J, Nelson ME. Improved physical fitness among older female participants in a nationally disseminated, community-based exercise program. Health Educ Behav. 2012;39(2):183-190. DOI: 10.1177/1090198111426768. PMC3727397

Seguin RA, Economos CD, Palombo R, Hyatt R, Kuder J, Nelson ME. Strength training and older women: a cross-sectional study examining factors related to exercise adherence. J Aging Phys Act. 2010;18(2):201-218. DOI: 10.1123/japa.18.2.201. PMC4308058

Seguin RA, Palombo R, Economos CD, Hyatt R, Kuder J, Nelson ME. Factors related to leader implementation of a nationally disseminated community-based exercise program: a cross-sectional study. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act. 2008;5:62. DOI: 10.1186/1479-5868-5-62. PMC2614422

Seguin RA, Economos CD, Hyatt R, Palombo R, Reed PN, Nelson ME. Design and national dissemination of the StrongWomen Community Strength Training Program. Prev Chronic Dis. 2008;5(1):A25. PMC224877