Caroline Bragg

“Weight training helps to increase bone density - that’s really important for women as our oestrogen levels dip and bone density decreases once we hit around 30.

“It also releases endorphins, so it’s all about helping that positive mind-set. One thing that’s really big at the moment is loneliness, and any exercise is going to help that by bringing you into contact with other people.

“And you can win arm wrestles – an important party trick. So, the benefits are pretty huge. Especially the arm wrestling one.”

Emma Obayuvana

“What people don’t realise, during weight training you’re also working your cardio-vascular system. You increase your heart rate when you weight train which is crucial for your heart [health] so it’s multi-faceted.

“When you do weight training it translates into your everyday life as well because you get stronger. Functional training, like doing squats or picking up a weight, helps whether we’re moving house or carrying shopping home.”

Tess Glynne-Jones

“I think the mental health benefits are huge. When women realise they can get results but they don’t feel like they’re punishing themselves and they’re enjoying it, it’s a break through.

“Gyms can be intimidating because they’re full of men grunting, but as soon as you’re confident in the gym you’re more confident in your real life. My clients start wearing red lipstick or clothes they wouldn’t wear before and it’s not because of how they look but because of how they feel. Women are deemed as the weaker sex, but strength training eliminates that.”

5 experts explain the benefits of strength training for women