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"going to gym for mid-50s -tips wanted"
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Check out the gym you are considering. See who their target clients are. See if they offer initial training with staff experienced in Boomer-Aging concerns. Take some lessons and most of all, listen to your body as to what feels right during/after the workout. Your body will know better than the trainer if some activities aren't right for you personally. Good luck! It 's the best insurance policy we can write for ourselves.
I am suffering from arthritic knees but was determined to get moving again. I found a wonderful 'basic' exercise regimen close to home, but what really keeps me going back is the music! Beach Boys and the Shirells make the experience of exrecise dramitally different than counting reps! Anyway, I'm sure that the most important aspect of exercise is not what you choose, but that you keep going back. I unabashidly admit that it is not the exercise, but the music! Good luck.
I will soon be 55 and have been doing thrice weekly work outs with a local personal trainer. Been going almost 3 years. It is good because the trainer becomes your friend and knows exactly what you can do and how quickly they can bring you along based on your personal goals and needs. They also help greatly on nutrition. To me, it is superior to the big box gyms that are populated by 20 and 30 somethings. My gym visits are $45 per visit -- no contract.
- #4
- Posted: Feb 05, 2009 05:43 PM
Flag for inappropriate language - stillsavvy
- Brookline, MA
- View Profile
There are some good tips for baby boomer exercising at http://community.icontact.com/p/stillsavvy/newsletters/archive/posts/savvy-to-go-exercise-from-the-expert
- Posted: Feb 05, 2009 05:43 PM
For those of you starting a new fitness regimen, better late than never! If you haven't been to a gym in a long time (or ever), it is worth your time and effort to work with a professional trainer. We all have friends that can show us a couple of exercises. But if you are interested in having a balanced program that suits your individual needs, one on one training is essential.
A few tips on finding a trainer are as follows:
1. Find the busier trainers. They are usually more sought after for a reason.
2. Fit trainers exercise themselves regularly. They are usually more effective than an out of shape trainer.
3. They are certified, motivating, creative, focused and punctual.
4. They suit your individual needs and personality. Its called "personal training" for
a reason.
Once you found your trainer, you have an obligation to be honest about your diet and lifestyle. Are you drinking/eating excessively? Are you doing cardio several times a week? Are you taking medication? Etc.
The exercise you perform initially, should be basic to allow for body awareness, proper form, and functionality--simple squats, seated rows, push-ups (on knees or against wall, if needed). Become familiar with all of the cardio equipment available: the stationary bike, elliptical, treadmill, etc. A reasonable goal is 3-4 times a week, for 30-45 minutes. Strength training 2-3 times a week is a good start. Exercise duration varies with fitness level and lifestyle. Your trainer will help you find your own program.
Healthful grains, fruit, eggs, yogurt, etc.is a great way to start the day. ALWAYS eat a good breakfast! This will help you eat well the rest of the day and reach your ideal weight. Chicken, fish, beans, vegetables, salad and lots of water. Come on, we all know whats good for us by now!
Beware of sports drinks, supplements (unless supervised by your doctor), and fad diets. A well balanced meal, lots of water, exercise and rest go a long way. Consistency is key and when you are new to anything, practice makes perfect. This is something you will do the rest of your life. The sooner you start doing it correctly, the sooner you will reap the wonderful benefits.
Good luck, good health.
Brian
Fit for Life
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i am mid-50s and want to start going to gym but don't want to overstrain myself -what are the tips for someone getting started on this regim for the first time