At POW! Gym Chicago, strength has always been the foundation. Since 2001, we’ve helped men in the West Loop and beyond train smarter, get stronger, and stay resilient. Owner Katalin Rodriguez Ogren has prioritized strength training for over 30 years — not just as a coach, but in her own life — and she brings that same commitment to every client who walks through our doors.
For men in their 40s, 50s, and beyond, strength training isn’t optional — it’s essential. Muscle mass naturally declines with age, and with it comes decreased metabolism, reduced bone density, and a higher risk of injury. But here’s the good news: consistent strength training can reverse those trends, helping you maintain lean muscle, improve mobility, and protect your long-term health. Research shows that even training just two days per week can significantly increase muscle mass, boost metabolism, and improve hormone function. Here are some great exercises to add to your gym routine that will enhance your functional strength.
If you’re using a GLP-1 receptor agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists), building strength becomes even more critical. These medications often lead to rapid weight loss, but without strength training, much of that loss can include muscle mass. Strength training ensures the weight you lose is the weight you want to lose, while protecting the muscle that keeps you strong, mobile, and confident.
Clinical studies show that people taking GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic (GLP-1) may lose up to 40% of their weight from lean muscle mass if they do not incorporate strength training.
Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlights that while GLP-1 medications are effective for weight loss and blood sugar control, combining them with resistance training helps preserve muscle and bone health — two key factors in long-term vitality.
At POW! Gym Chicago, we design programs that go beyond just lifting weights — they’re built to help you live strong, move well, and feel your best at every stage of life. Whether your goal is to build power, improve health markers, or simply keep up with the demands of an active lifestyle, strength training is the key to unlocking it all.
