I have been lifting weights on this program for two years. I also walk two miles three times a week. I am 47, 5'2" and I use 12 or 15lb hand weights and about the same in leg weights. My question for you originally came from a dentist friend who regularly does bench presses and squats. He warned me that the exercises you have suggested might be putting more stress on my elbows, knees, and hips that those joints were intended to take. Have you done any research on this?

At Tufts University we have done strength training studies on frail older people up to age 100. We have not found that the strength training puts too much stress on the joints. In fact, we have found that strength training at a high intensity is healthy and safe for the joints. Follow these tips:

• Progress slowly as you go through the program.
• Always make sure that you can lift the weights in good form.
• Keep breathing throughout the move.
• If you are struggling, decrease the amount of weight that you are lifting to a weight that you can lift in good from for all repetitions.
• You should never have any acute pain in the joint when you are lifting the weights.

If you follow these guidelines, you will be performing the program safely and effectively.