Strength training isn’t only for the young; it’s also necessary for older people. A new report states that people 80 and younger should consider adding strength training to their exercise routines because it fights against the weakening effects of old age. After 80, however, there may be no benefits.

Building muscle does more than burn calories and make you look better—it can help the elderly maintain balance and independence. “I advise people to actively engage in some sort of resistance training once they hit their 60s. From [the findings of] our study, once you hit the threshold of 80, that may not be possible,” says Scott Trappe, director of Ball State’s Human Performance Laboratory in Indiana.

Ask your health care provider how to start a strength-training program.