How Do Age and Exercise Fit Together?

People frequently ask how I factor age into our members’ programs. We have members in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s. My answer usually surprises them.

I don’t factor in age at all. It never enters my mind.

That may seem reckless or even dangerous, but I assure you it’s quite the opposite. I’ve trained people in their 30s and 40s who deal with pain every day, move poorly, and have below-average physical strength. I’ve trained people in their 60s and older who feel great, move well, and have strength well above average. How does age figure in? It doesn’t.

I write individualized programs for all our members, which is just some of what I consider.

•    Goals

•    Mobility

•    Injuries

•    Movement and Postural Asymmetry

•    Psychology

•    Training Frequency

•    Training Experience

•    Exercises Preferences

•    Movement Quality

All these things are more important than age. Studies have shown that older people aren’t necessarily fragile or incapable of doing things. It’s only when people stop moving and challenging themselves that these things occur and if you look around, you’ll see that can happen at any age.

Let me put it another way. If someone in their 70s has knee pain while performing certain exercises, I’ll examine their posture and movement to determine any issues and then adjust their program accordingly. Doesn’t that seem better than just pulling out “The Age 70 Training Program” and having them do it no matter what?

Here’s a simple way to look at things: You can improve no matter how old you are. You can feel and move better no matter how old you are. You can improve not only with exercise but also with daily movement, such as walking and climbing stairs.

I know this can seem complicated, so let me know your questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them.