IT IS true, particularly for women, that the bones become more fragile with age. There are many reasons for this and at its worst it can develop into osteoporosis and leave sufferers vulnerable to broken bones from the slightest bump.

As well as consuming sufficient quantities of calcium to replenish the skeletal system, weight-bearing exercise has been shown in many studies to stop and even reverse bone-density deterioration.

A loss of co-ordination as we age, combined with more fragile bones, means that the increased likelihood of falling almost always results in injury. By improving overall balance and engaging in some sort of strength-building exercise, which will also help to make the muscles surrounding the bones more robust, falls will be much less frequent and the body better able to cope if they do occur.

EXERCISES: Squats

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, then slowly bend the knees and stick out your buttocks, as though you were about to sit down. Slowly return to the start position and repeat ten times.

Half press-ups

Get on to your hands and knees, placing your hands shoulder-width apart. Slowly bend the arms so your head drops towards the floor, coming back up just before your nose reaches the ground. Repeat ten times.

Bicep curl

Stand or sit with your arms straight down by your sides holding a small hand-weight in each hand. Slowly bend your elbows so that your hands come up towards your chest. Before they touch your shoulders, allow the arms to drop slowly back down. Repeat ten times.

• Exercises provided by Robert Day, a personal trainer working in London and Surrey. For further information, phone 07958-774471

  Ensure that you have the consent of your GP before embarking on a new exercise regime and do not undertake any physical activity if you are feeling unwell or are recovering from an injury

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