The Age and Exercise Connection

People frequently ask how I factor age into the programs for our gym members. 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 a little 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 whose strength is well above average. How does age figure in? It doesn’t.

I write individualized programs for all our members, and these are just some of what I consider:

Goals

Mobility

Injuries

Movement/Posture Asymmetry

Psychology

Training Frequency

Training Experience

Exercises Preferences

Movement Quality

All these factors are more important than age. Study after study has 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 performing certain exercises, I’ll look at their posture and movement to determine any issues and program them accordingly. Doesn’t this seem more effective and responsible than just pulling out an "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 itself but with daily tasks such as walking, climbing stairs, etc., with regular strength training.

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