However, by the time you hit your 30s, things can start to add up quickly.

Atotal-body transformationis entirely possible after you turn 30.

The most effective exercises to transform your body after 30 are compound resistance movements using dumbbells and barbells.

woman doing barbell back squats, resistance training exercises to transform your body after 30

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Ready to get started?

Perform three to four sets of eight to 12 repetitions per exercise.

confirm the safety pins are set just above waist level, if available.

woman doing barbell back squats at the gym

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Step back, and position your feet hip-width apart.

Point your toes slightly outward.

Begin the squat by bending at the hips and knees, while keeping your chest up and spine neutral.

woman doing barbell bench presses

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Repeat for the target repetitions.

The bench press is essential for developing the chest, triceps, and shoulders.

It’s also an excellent indicator of upper-body strength.

fit woman doing walking lunges, concept of strength exercises to keep your weight down for good

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To perform a bench press, lie on a flat bench with your eyes directly under the barbell.

Push the bar back up until your arms are extended, without locking out your elbows.

Remember to squeeze the muscles for about one second at the end of the movement.

woman holding barbell, deadlift

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Repeat for the target repetitions.

To perform a lunge, stand upright with your feet hip-width apart.

Rotate your left foot inward slightly as you lower your left knee.

illustration of dumbbell bent-over row

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Push up through the full foot of your right leg to return to the starting position.

Alternate legs, and repeat for the target repetitions.

Deadlifts

The deadlift targets the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back.

fit people doing pull-ups

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Bend at your hips and knees, and grip the barbell with your hands just outside your knees.

Keep your back straight and lift your chest, then stand up with the weight.

Lower the bar by moving your hips back while keeping your legs slightly bent.

illustration of how to do glute bridge core-strengthening exercises

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Repeat for the target repetitions.

This movement enhances posture and upper-body strength.

Bend at your knees slightly and hinge at your waist, keeping your back straight.

Pull the bar or weights toward your chest, keeping your elbows close to your body.

Slowly lower the bar or weights back to the starting position, avoiding shrugging your shoulders throughout the movement.

Repeat for the target repetitions.

Slowly lower yourself back to the starting position, ensuring to avoid shrugging your shoulders throughout the motion.

Repeat for the target repetitions.

The glute bridge targets the glutes, hamstrings, and core.

It’s an excellent exercise for improving hip mobility and lower-body strength.

Pushing through the full foot, lift your hips off the ground while squeezing your glutes.

Keep your back straight, and visualize drawing your lower ribs toward your pelvis.

Repeat for the target repetitions.