This is a daunting issue for many older adults knowing they aren’t spring chickens anymore. But it’s not doom and gloom when you enter your golden years where you can start to wind back on work and begin to enjoy the fruits of your labour.
If you don’t know where to begin, find an experienced trainer who is going to help you get better and see them at least 2 x week.
There’s so many benefits starting now rather leaving it to later that you can reap in the short-term, and gain much more long-term. The results obtained from many of our older clients in a matter of weeks has been massive. This includes;
- No more lower back pain
- Able to walk up and down stairs without fearing their knees will give way
- Get in and out of the car with ease
- Weight loss
- Confidence
I think the biggest outcome mentally has been more confidence in their ability to perform daily tasks, where they may have struggled or avoided doing being fearful they would injure themselves.
The longer term health benefits include:
- Reduce the rate of age related muscle and bone loss
- Reduce the likelihood of lifestyle diseases i.e. Heart disease, Diabetes, Hypertension
- Less likely to sustain falls from tripping
- Able to become more flexible/mobile
All these health related outcomes will help you live a high quality of life where you won’t need to fear and avoid movements that cause pain as you’ll be stronger, fitter and more mobile.
So where do you begin?
See your doctor to get the “all clear” and to ensure there isn’t anything that exercise could potentially flare up. I would suggest asking your friends if they see a PT or Strength Coach to start with or ask on the Facebook community groups. You want to make sure you’re correctly shown what to do and get assessed on what you can currently do.
Many people get stuck asking the age old question when they ask a PT or Strength Coach… “How much do you charge?”
What you’re better off doing is asking the following questions;
- Are you currently working with older adults?
- What success have they made working with you?
Some other things you should take notice of;
- They ask about your health and exercise history
- Do they ask about your current or previous injuries and chronic conditions
- Do they ask about your goals and your current lifestyle
- Do they go into further detail in regards to the above points
This usually shows a genuine level of care and they are willing to provide a service to best serve you.
If you’re still reading, you’re probably asking “Why don’t I just go to a commercial gym? Won’t that be good enough?”
This is a valid point. Most gyms have personal trainers that the sales team will refer you onto. However the demographic and environment for these types of gyms can be quite intimidating to new gym-goers (not just older adults, but of all ages).
The massive amount of machines, large gym floor and lack of direction of what to do is intimidating and overwhelming.
This is where small studios can best serve you. The environment is welcoming, everyone knows each other, no egos, just an environment you can get better in without the pressure of hundreds of people training at once plus you’re able to use the equipment when you need to. You’re more likely to get the attention you need from the coaches and not be lost in the crowd.
The Final Word
I cannot stress enough the importance of having proper guidance and ongoing support to get the results you need safely.
Your health and fitness is your greatest investment!
Are you over 50 and need help getting started on your health and fitness journey? Book now to get started.
Trent Pirihi
Founder and Head Strength Coach
Inner Athlete
