Back to school I was 56 [when I went to get my personal training certificate]. I was ready to retire from education, but I wanted to do more, to be active, and of course I was already active at the club so it was just a natural thing to move into something full-time there. I was so interested in exercise, and I just wanted to do more with fitness.
Her schedule I teach 10 classes a week, and three of them are called Fit Forever. It's designed for a senior population but is great for anyone who needs a basic fitness class, including individuals with joint concerns, like arthritis.
Keep improving You are never too old to increase your fitness level. My advice, especially to women but to men, too, would be to include strength training and flexibility exercises in your daily routine so you can remain active and functional and avoid injury as you age.
The evolution I see more people my age in classes because they started when I did, and they had fun, too, and so they still take classes. Fitness classes have really evolved. I think one reason is because as mature men and women we can't do a lot of the high-impact classes we did for years and years that took a real toll on our joints. So now we have the opportunity to do classes that are still really beneficial, such as strength training, and some that are both cardio and resistance training yet are easier on the joints.
Done with one workout, onto another If I'm going to work out, I do that after class. I use the elliptical probably four or five times a week for about 40 minutes. I use a heart-rate monitor, and I encourage people in my classes to use a heart-rate monitor because it really shows you if you're working in the appropriate zones to get the benefit you're looking for. I also work out with heavy weights once or twice a week.
Feeling lucky At this point in my life I just feel so fortunate that I have the ability to still do this. I have a job that I love helping others to live a healthy and fit lifestyle. The bonus is it keeps me fit, as well.
