A physical therapist says a weak upper body is a telltale sign that you will age poorly—here’s how he recommends you fix it

Senior woman sitting in chair holding filled water bottles by her shoulders.

At Fit&Well, we often talk about the importance of maintaining your core strength and balance as you age to minimize the risk of falls. But that shouldn’t mean you neglect other parts of your body. According to physical therapist Jamie Bovay, you should be paying particular attention to your upper body.

“Your upper body is your main interface with the physical world,” Bovay tells Fit&Well. “If you don't maintain it, you are going to lose it and slowly give up your independence.”