- Genuinely Healthy
- Posts
- Maximize Bone and Muscle Health After 30
Maximize Bone and Muscle Health After 30
The Essential FACE Protocol

In today’s newsletter, we delve into a critical topic of bone and muscle health.
Did you know that after the age of 30, both bone density and muscle mass begin to decline at an alarming rate? Research shows that, on average, bone density decreases by 1% per year, while muscle mass can decline by up to 5% per decade. This gradual loss can significantly impact your quality of life, increasing the risk of fractures, falls, and decreased mobility. But, the good news is that by understanding and addressing this issue proactively, you can slow down or even reverse these effects.
To help you effectively address the decline in bone density and muscle mass, we’ll introduce you to the FACE approach, developed by Dr. Vonda Wright, which offers a comprehensive method to combat these age-related declines and promote stronger bones and muscles.
Today’s newsletter is also special one because it provides a sneak peek into the kind of valuable content our premium subscribers receive. If you found this information helpful and want more protocols like this delivered weekly, consider subscribing to our premium membership.
The FACE Approach: Your Blueprint for Stronger Bones and Muscles
The FACE approach integrates four essential components—Flexibility, Aerobic, Conditioning, and Equilibrium—providing a comprehensive framework to enhance overall physical well-being.
1. Flexibility (F)
Objective: Improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.
Benefits: Enhances joint mobility, prevents injuries, and supports muscle recovery.
Examples:
Static Stretching (e.g., hamstring stretch)
Dynamic Stretching (e.g., leg swings)
Yoga Poses (e.g., downward dog, pigeon pose)
Foam Rolling (e.g., quads, calves)
Pilates (e.g., roll-ups, spine stretches)
Shoulder Rotations (e.g., arm circles)
Hip Flexor Stretches (e.g., lunge stretch)
Cat-Cow Stretch (spinal flexibility)
2. Aerobic (A)
Objective: Boost cardiovascular health and endurance.
Benefits: Strengthens the heart, supports weight management, and improves stamina.
Examples:
Running (e.g., outdoor jogging, treadmill)
Cycling (e.g., outdoor biking, stationary bike)
Swimming (e.g., laps, water aerobics)
Brisk Walking (e.g., power walking, hiking)
Rowing (e.g., rowing machine workouts)
Jump Rope (e.g., single-leg jumps, double-unders)
Dancing (e.g., Zumba, aerobics classes)
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) (e.g., sprints, burpees).
3. Conditioning or Carrying a Load (C)
Objective: Build muscle strength and bone density.
Benefits: Enhances muscle mass, increases bone strength, and improves functional fitness.
Examples:
Push-ups (e.g., standard, incline)
Squats (e.g., bodyweight, single-leg)
Lunges (e.g., forward, reverse)
Planks (e.g., standard, side planks)
Burpees (e.g., full-body, modified)
Resistance Band Exercises (e.g., bicep curls, shoulder presses)
HIIT Workouts (e.g., circuit training, kettlebell swings)
Calisthenics (e.g., pull-ups, dips)
4. Equilibrium (E)
Objective: Improve balance and stability.
Benefits: Reduces fall risk, enhances coordination, and supports core strength.
Examples:
Balance Exercises (e.g., single-leg stands, stability ball exercises)
Core Strengthening (e.g., crunches, leg raises)
Tai Chi (e.g., slow, controlled movements)
Stability Ball Workouts (e.g., wall squats, roll-outs)
Bosu Ball Exercises (e.g., squats, planks)
Balance Board Training (e.g., standing exercises, shifts)
Yoga Balancing Poses (e.g., tree pose, warrior III)
Agility Drills (e.g., ladder drills, cone drills)
Detailed FACE Protocol for Bone and Muscle Health
Component | Exercise Examples | Frequency | Duration | Benefits |
---|---|---|---|---|
Flexibility | Static Stretching (e.g., hamstring stretch) | 3 times per week | 10-15 mins | Improves joint mobility, reduces muscle stiffness |
Aerobic | Running, Cycling | 3 times per week | 30-45 mins | Enhances cardiovascular health, boosts endurance |
Conditioning | Push-ups, Squats, HIIT | 2-3 times per week | 30-45 mins | Builds muscle strength, increases bone density |
Equilibrium | Balance Exercises, Core Strengthening | 2 times per week | 15-20 mins | Improves balance, reduces fall risk, supports core |
Sample Weekly Routine:
Day 1: Flexibility + Conditioning
Flexibility: 10 minutes of static stretching
Conditioning: 30 minutes of bodyweight strength training
Day 2: Aerobic
Aerobic Exercise: 45 minutes of running or cycling
Day 3: Flexibility + Equilibrium
Flexibility: 10 minutes of dynamic stretching
Equilibrium: 15 minutes of balance exercises and core strengthening
Day 4: Aerobic
Aerobic Exercise: 45 minutes of swimming or brisk walking
Day 5: Conditioning + Equilibrium
Conditioning: 30 minutes of HIIT
Equilibrium: 15 minutes of core strengthening
Day 6: Rest or Active Recovery
Active Recovery: Light walking or gentle stretching
Day 7: Rest or optional flexibility session
Diet Plan for Bone and Muscle Health
Nutrient | Daily Target | Food Sources | Benefits |
---|---|---|---|
Protein | 1.2-1.6 grams/kg body weight | Chicken breast, salmon, lentils, quinoa, Greek yogurt, eggs, tofu, cottage cheese | Supports muscle repair, growth, and maintenance |
Calcium | 1000-1200 mg | Kale, bok choy, almonds, chia seeds, fortified plant milks, sardines with bones, broccoli | Vital for bone strength and density |
Vitamin D | 600-800 IU | Fatty fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel), fortified orange juice, mushrooms, egg yolks, sunlight exposure | Enhances calcium absorption and bone health |
Magnesium | 310-420 mg | Spinach, pumpkin seeds, black beans, avocados, dark chocolate, whole grains, almonds | Supports bone density and muscle function |
Vitamin K | 90-120 mcg | Leafy greens (e.g., kale, spinach), Brussels sprouts, parsley, fermented foods (e.g., natto) | Important for bone metabolism and blood clotting |
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 250-500 mg EPA & DHA | Fatty fish (e.g., sardines, salmon), flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts | Reduces inflammation, supports joint health |
Healthy Fats | Moderate | Olive oil, avocado, nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts), seeds (e.g., flax, chia) | Supports hormone balance and overall health |
Complex Carbs | Moderate | Sweet potatoes, brown rice, whole grain bread, oats, legumes, fruits (e.g., berries, apples) | Provides sustained energy and supports muscle function |
Hydration | 8-10 glasses/day | Water, herbal teas (e.g., green tea, chamomile) | Maintains metabolic processes and supports recovery |
By integrating the FACE approach and adhering to a balanced diet, you can effectively combat the decline in bone density and muscle health after 30, enhancing your overall quality of life and physical well-being.
If you found this protocol valuable and want more like it, consider joining our Genuinely Healthy Premium Membership. Our premium subscribers get access to detailed protocols like this one, along with in-depth articles, special discounts, free ebooks and guide and much more!
For any questions or additional information, reach out to us on Instagram.
Today’s Sponsors
Meet Lumen: The Device Breathing New Life into Personal Wellness
Imagine starting each day armed with the knowledge of exactly what your body craves to thrive. Introducing Lumen - your personalized wellness companion. By simply analyzing your breath, Lumen crafts bespoke nutrition plans tailored to your unique metabolic profile. Whether you're aiming for weight management, energy elevation, or muscle gain, Lumen equips you with the tools for success.
But Lumen goes beyond conventional health apps. It synchronizes with your cycle, adapting recommendations to support hormonal fluctuations. These invaluable insights empower you to safeguard your metabolic health at every life stage. With unmatched adaptability and personalized care, Lumen stands out in the realm of health and wellness.
Because achieving optimal health is more than just tracking numbers - it's about making informed decisions. With Lumen's insights, you gain the knowledge to make smarter, more effective choices, paving the way for a healthier, happier you.
Reply