We can't tell you how many times we've heard...well I'm just getting old and I guess I can't do those things anymore. Now, it's no secret that your body handles things differently than a 20 or 30 year old when you hit 40+. BUT, let's never use that as an excuse. You can do so much more than you think, all you have to do is try.
We see a heckuva lot of strong women over 40, over 50 and over 60 at our gym and I've asked them to share their stories. They are so inspiring! And they aren't just strong for their age - they are just simply STRONG!
Next up is Cindy! We love seeing Cindy in class. She's prepared, works hard, aims for the best form, and is consistent! She's always up for trying a progression, but also has the ability to not take herself too seriously if she's unsure about it. Cindy is fun to coach and truly an example for all members!
Here's more about Cindy! Also we would never ask our members to share their age, but it's necessary to drive this message home and that's why it's first!
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Your age: 63
When did you start strength training? I joined Dragonfly Fitness in July 2020 at 59 yrs old. Although strength training was not the reason I joined DF. My original goal was to exercise to lose weight. I signed up for the endurance classes at that time. I did not intentionally dodge strength classes, in my mind cardio was more important. As a matter of fact, I do not recall the membership sales pitch being about strength training at all. (ha!)
What's your previous experience (if any)? I had no previous strength training experience to speak of. I belonged to a gym and did small group training. We took turns on machines that were awkward to adjust, and I hated the ear-piercing clanking of the weights along with grunts and groans from sweaty gym rats. Looking back, it was not enticing nor motivating.
What have you found to be the most challenging part of sticking with training? I was challenged at the start to make training a part of my weekly routine. Once my workout days are set, I look forward to workouts. If I have to miss a class because of a conflict or a holiday, I'm annoyed more than anything. There are days I am tired and don't feel like working out, but as soon as the workout begins, I am re-energized and it helps release a lot of stress.
Have there been hard moments? Hard moments? You bet. I do not consider myself a very coordinated person. I am easily intimidated by heavy weights and certain movements. I have to make a conscious effort to avoid comparing myself to others, especially younger members, and instead focus on my own progress and achievements.
How did you overcome those challenges?! Showing up and committing. I am not going to pretend that I know what I am doing so I am open to instructions and guidance from the trainers. The 8-week session format at DF helps me learn, improve and master movements. I appreciate modifications, because at my age range of motion can be limiting, and muscles do not respond like they used to. It has been rewarding to see the progress I have made both physically and mentally and that is about building confidence and believing in myself.
What has surprised you the most about your strength and progress? I have experienced slow/steady, or stair stepped progress versus a swift and steep climb. That may have something to do with starting training 'late in life', but I have not let that discourage me. In fact, the opposite is true. The small achievements are motivating, and I am curious to see how far I can go. At DF we are exposed to a variety of strength training exercises. I would have never thought that hangs, pistol squats or kettlebell snatches are a type of strength training.
How has your strength and fitness impacted life outside of the gym? Increasing my physical fitness has positively impacted my golf game. A routine of 2-3 workouts per week has significantly improved my core strength, stamina, and focus. These improvements have given me more distance with my iron play and the ability to finish 18 holes with consistent energy. Additionally, my joint health has benefited, reducing knee creakiness and eliminating chronic hip pain. No more daily doses of Advil!
What do you feel like is your strongest quality when it comes to the gym/training? I try to be intentional about performing a movement properly. I want to feel muscles working and safeguard injury. I appreciate the watchful eye of DF trainers because there is always something to learn and increase awareness of positioning.
What are some of your proudest moments in the gym? Brag brag brag!
Rowing
Kettlebells swings and variations
Single arm planks
Getting through finishers without feeling gassed and as though my heart will explode out of my chest!
Being able to push myself even a little more gives me personal satisfaction
What would you say to a friend who wants to start strength training, but is maybe nervous? Give it a try! What do you have to lose? It will make day to day activities easier such as climbing stairs, hauling grocery bags, and opening jar lids. Strength training is not at all about bulging muscles and fake tans.
Anything else you would like to add? Prioritizing DF and making it a part of my life has had many positive impacts on my overall health. It is important to me to do what I can to ward off osteoporosis and improve endurance for heart health. I have five grandchildren, and I want to be able to be active with them for a long time. I want to be the grandparent that kicks the soccer ball, turns cartwheels, and can get up and down off the floor without assistance.
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