Let’s talk about George. George, at 72, came to me with what he called “a list of reasons why exercise isn’t for me.” Joint pain, low energy, fear of falling, and an impressive ability to avoid all forms of physical activity. George knew he needed to do something and be physically active, but the reasons he listed were holding him back. He even told me, “I think I’ve retired from exercise.” Fast forward three months, and George is a new man. He’s not just active—he’s thriving. He discovered that the real secret to staying fit as you age isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what works for you.
Move Well. Move Often.
George came to us because he knew we were experts in helping older adults introduce weight training in their life and that we did it in a safe and effective manner. At Corefit, we’ve helped countless clients like George overcome barriers to fitness with simple, effective strategies. Here’s how we tackle some of the most common challenges older adults face—and how you can too.
1. Low Energy Levels (When You Feel Like a Sloth 🦥)
“I’d exercise if I wasn’t so tired” is something I hear all the time. Ironically, the best fix for low energy is… exercise! But don’t worry—I’m not talking about running marathons. Small, consistent movements are all it takes to jumpstart your energy. I call those “Feel Good Workouts.” Moving your body with the right exercises and contracting your muscles will make you feel better by releasing hormones while you are training.
- Start Small: George began with just ten minutes of a simple home routine. That’s it—ten minutes! By week two, he added short walks, and by month three, he was breezing through our one-hour semi-private training sessions.
- Why It Works: Exercise improves blood flow and releases endorphins (aka, nature’s mood boosters). Clients often tell me they feel more energized after a workout, not less.
- George’s advice: “Even if you don’t feel like it, just start small. Ten minutes makes a difference.”
2. Joint Pain (Your Knees Are Talking, and They’re Not Happy 🦵)
Joint pain doesn’t mean you have to sit out. It just means you need to find movements that are kinder to your body.
- Water Aerobics: Exercising in water is like getting a free joint massage. The buoyancy takes the pressure off, while the resistance strengthens muscles.
- Resistance Bands: George was skeptical of these “giant rubber bands,” but now he loves them. They’re a fantastic way to build strength without stressing your joints.
- Personalized Modifications: Every exercise can be tailored. Don’t like lunges? No problem—we’ll find something else. At Corefit, it’s all about working with your body, not against it.
3. Fear of Injury (Because Falling Is Not a Fitness Goal 🙃)
This is a big one. Fear of getting hurt keeps a lot of people from even trying. That’s why safety is baked into everything we do at Corefit.
- Proper Form: George quickly learned that a small modification to how you move can make a world of difference. Corefit trainers focus on getting the basics right to reduce injury risk.
- Fall Prevention: Balance drills and activities like Tai Chi improve coordination. George went from being nervous about stairs to walking confidently without holding the railing.
- Modified Movements: We’ll adjust exercises to fit your abilities, so you feel safe and supported every step of the way.
4. Time Constraints: My Retired Clients Are So Busy, I Don’t Know How They Did Managed When They Were Still Working! ⏰
“I don’t have time” is a classic excuse, but here’s the thing: fitness doesn’t have to take hours.
- Short Sessions: A 20-minute workout is more than enough to make a difference. Corefit offers at-home routines that fit into any schedule.
- Sneak It In: Movement can happen anywhere—take the stairs, park farther from the store, or do calf raises while brushing your teeth. (Yes, it counts!). Snackexercise in a new term. Do 10 squats when you have to stop your TV show.
- Custom Schedules: We’ll help you design a plan that works with your lifestyle, whether you’re running errands or running after grandkids.
5. Lack of Motivation (When the Couch Feels Too Cozy 🛋️)
Staying motivated can feel like a challenge, especially when progress is slow. But trust me—momentum builds with small wins.
- Semi-Private Training: There’s nothing like a little friendly accountability. George now jokes that he shows up just to beat his buddy at squats.
- Celebrate Milestones: At Corefit, we make a big deal out of your progress, no matter how small. Did your balance improve? Did you walk an extra block? That’s a win!
- Realistic Goals: Breaking things into manageable steps makes everything feel doable. Start small, and watch your confidence grow.
6. Health Conditions and Recovery (Your Body Is a Work in Progress ❤️)
If you’ve got chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease—or you’re recovering from surgery—exercise can still be your best friend. It’s all about working smarter, not harder.
- Collaborative Approach: We work closely with your healthcare providers to create a safe, tailored plan.
- Gentle Progression: There’s no rush. The focus is on building strength and endurance at a pace that feels good for you.
- Targeted Exercises: Movements that improve circulation and reduce stiffness can do wonders for your overall well-being.
7. Mental Health Barriers (Because It’s Not Just About Muscles 🧠)
Anxiety, depression, and low confidence can make starting a fitness routine feel overwhelming. That’s why Corefit focuses on creating a positive, welcoming environment.
- Mindfulness Practices: Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises help reduce stress and boost emotional well-being.
- Personalized Encouragement: One-on-one and semi-private coaching provides the support and motivation needed to stay consistent. Whether it’s a check-in message or a tailored workout, we’re here to help you succeed.
- Confidence Building: Achieving small milestones—like holding a plank for 10 seconds longer—reminds you of what you’re capable of.
The Corefit Holistic Approach 💡
At Corefit Training, we believe fitness is about more than just moving—it’s about thriving. Our “Fitness for 50 Plus” program is designed to tackle the unique barriers older adults face, from physical limitations to mental health challenges.
We combine expert guidance, personalized plans, and a supportive community to ensure every client feels safe, motivated, and empowered. Whether it’s addressing joint pain, boosting energy, or simply making exercise fun, we’re here to help you unlock your potential.
Because here’s the truth: no matter your age, your best days are still ahead. Let’s tackle those barriers together and get you moving toward a healthier, happier life.
Taking The First Step Is Easier Than You Think!
We’re with you every step of the way.
Yours in health,
Coach Guy