Bold claim: Age doesn’t have to slow you down—dedicated strength training can help you age with real, tangible strength and bone health. And this is where the story gets interesting: Oprah Winfrey, at 72, shows how consistency over time can transform a simple exercise like planks into a powerful daily habit.
To counter bone and muscle loss as we age, regular strength training is essential. For women, osteoporosis risk is a real concern, since bones can become weaker and more prone to fractures. Strength training not only strengthens muscles but also supports bone health and helps slow bone loss, sometimes even building new bone over time.
On February 17, Oprah shared an Instagram update emphasizing the value of regular strength work and offering a behind-the-scenes look at her current routine. The media mogul compared her strength progress between 2024 and 2026, illustrating how steady practice yields real gains.
Strength training supports greater overall strength
In her post, Oprah admitted she’s always found planks challenging. In 2024, she could barely hold a plank for more than 10 seconds. Through ongoing training with her coach, she gradually increased her endurance and now completes a one-minute plank routine.
“Planks are the toughest exercise for me. My first 2024 plank lasted 10 seconds. Now I can hold them for over a minute, with weights, and with whatever variation Trainer Peter introduces 💪🏽,” she wrote in the caption.
Oprah nails planks at 72
The video highlights a key takeaway: if your goal is to age well, especially as a woman aiming to strengthen bones, prioritizing flexibility and strength in workouts matters.
Her Instagram update divides the content into two timelines: 2024 and 2026. In the 2024 clip, she explains, “I’ve started strength training. My goal is to be able to do a plank and a weighted plank at the same time, without feeling like I’m dying.” At that time, she could hold a bodyweight plank for about 10 seconds.
In the newer clip titled “Strength training today,” Oprah demonstrates a one-minute plank, extending it by another 20 seconds. She also showcases a weighted-plank variation: on all fours, lifting a dumbbell with her right hand while balancing on the other hand, then repeating the routine.
Important note: This content is informational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have questions about a medical condition, consult your doctor.
Disclaimer: This piece reflects user-generated social-media content. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not officially endorse them.
