Smash hit

Problem

This is when the rot sets in. The changes are imperceptible at first, then you begin to notice that the body doesn’t bounce back as it used to. Cellulite begins to appear on previously smooth thighs, fat accumulates in unwanted places and skin begins to lose elasticity. These are also the years when many women choose to start a family, and nothing messes with a body more than pregnancy (except perhaps the menopause).

Solution

Considered maintenance, from the feet up. For the first time in your life you may need to pay attention to your feet, as they wreak revenge for those high heels of your twenties. Pregnancy, too, can alter their shape and change them by a whole shoe size. Regular pedicures, preferably medical-grade, will alleviate problems caused by dry skin and pressure points. Now is a good time to keep an eye out for any rogue moles on your skin, and be vigilant in areas of maximum exposure such as chest and legs. Pregnancy and hormonal shifts may cause changes in body shape. Make sure that you are measured for a bra regularly, as it is unlikely that you will be the same size you were in your twenties. Bravissimo (www.bravissimo.com) is excellent, as is Marks & Spencer or, if you’re feeling rich, there is always the Queen’s corsetières, Rigby & Peller (www.rigbyandpeller.com).

Multimedia

• Pictures: Celebs ageing well

How I lost 12lb with The Times Health Club

Lee Wilkinson lost 12lb test-driving our new health club

• The 1,100 calorie Pick 'n' Mix diet

• Join the fab ab set

• 10 ways to drop a dress size

BACKGROUND

• Welcome to The Times Health Club, by the editor of Body&Soul

• Getting started with The Times Health Club

• Ten good reasons to keep a food diary

Related Internet Links

• The Times Health Club

Related Links

• Age defiance: nutrition

• Let’s face facts

• Age defiance: fitness

AGE 35-45

Problem

This age group faces an onslaught from stretch marks, cellulite, veins, saggy stomachs, loss of skin tone, age spots, thinning hair and wayward hormones.

Solution

First and foremost, keep an eye on your body’s inner functioning. Check cholesterol and hormone levels, and be rigorous in your breast checks. This is also the age when women start to earn enough to consider small correcting procedures such as thread-vein removal and teeth whitening. Some may also try liposuction treatments, which promise quick, easy results. This desire lasts well into your sixties. But beware: there is no such thing as successful lunchtime surgery. If you decide to take the plunge, then do so with a qualified practitioner. However, it’s far better to embark on a balanced diet and exercise programme.

AGE 45-55

Problem

The early menopause, or the menopause itself, is probably the defining problem for this age group. Changes in hormone levels can play havoc with your body’s appearance and strength. Thinning hair, thickening waist, water retention and joint pain can all become real problems.

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