Aging Up: A Vision and Action Mindset

Based on questions I've fielded from clients, I get the sneaking suspicion that there are plenty of people out there who feel that there is a time limit for physical fitness- an expiration date, so to speak for muscle growth and cardio improvements.

While working with a 72-years young client, I thought to myself, Wow, she is stronger than many younger women. I admired her form as she moved her 10 lb weights through a series of curls. She didn't rock, she used control- her elbows were in, shoulders back. Her face bore a look that was determined enough to show she was challenging herself, but it was clear to me that she needed a new set of weights to progress to the next level.

While it is true that our muscles atrophy without use, and that over time, fluctuations in our hormones make muscle growth more difficult. However, it is research proven that you can still add skeletal muscle to your frame, increase your range of motion, improve your cardiovascular system, and benefit your longevity at any age. Not to mention, a superpower that more senior clients have- less self-doubt. Once they get started, there seems to be no stopping them.

When I think about my reasons for becoming physically active at a younger age- they included desires such as, losing baby fat, keeping up with my children, looking good in a swimsuit. Now, at 46, I think about how I want to age. I look at images of women with silver hair (I am in the process of letting my natural color grow out) and men and women strong, active, and joyful. I think to myself- I don't want to be bound to a chair. I want to be like that. I no longer Pinterest images of people my age and use them as inspiration for my body. I look at seniors who are at their best, most fit, most confident and I use their images to inspire me.

This fitness life isn't just for the young. There isn't a time limit for when you can start or continue. There isn't a specific time you need to end. There is a long game, and I am going to play it. Are you? Are you going to allow worries or fears to hold you back? Are you going to build the muscle and mobility that will keep you young, independent, and free? If you are young and you are reading this, I encourage you to take advantage of your youth and move more, with resistance to build a strong foundation to keep building on as you age. If you are reading this as a senior, remember that it is your vision and mindset that determines your ability to thrive.

Reach out to a local trainer if you want to work through aches, pains, arthritis, and some of the obstacles that come with aging. This is what we are here for- to help you see your strengths. Educate yourself. In this article from the American Council on Education, you can learn more about exercise through the decades.

Click on the link below to read the article.

https://www.acefitness.org/resources/pros/expert-articles/6108/exercise-for-each-decade-of-the-adult-lifespan/

Reach out if you'd like to schedule a free wellness consultation with me!

Love,

LeeAnn

ACE Certified Personal Trainer

Emergence Wellness