Over 50s Strength Training
Private Gym - Christchurch
Strength training for people over 50 can offer a multitude of benefits from increasing muscle mass which in turn helps to: -
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boost your metabolism,
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improve bone density,
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support joints and ligaments,
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helps maintain healthy weight,
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If you exercise regularly then it is a wise option to include some form of strength training into your weekly routine by doing this, it will also help to improve your quality of life.
We are constantly hearing that we need to be doing special activities at the gym (or at home): -
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muscle building exercises,
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strength training
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preventing muscle loss
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push-ups and lunges that we’ve never done before!
If you’re confused and concerned about not doing enough to stay healthy as you get older, it’s totally understandable.
Another roadblock is that most of the local gyms, are noisy, dark and seem to have a lot of very fit people, mostly young and fit.
Perhaps, I can provide some answers and reassurance.
I’m Charlie, an older personal trainer who likes to work with over 50’s as I understand the changes our bodies undergo as we age.
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Generally, we reach what's called “peak muscle mass” when we are in our 30s and from then muscle mass naturally lessens.
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This decline can be slowed down by doing resistance training on a regular basis.
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Unfortunately, this time in our life also coincides with buying a house, having children and steps on the ladder of establishing our careers.
Strength training versus aerobic exercise
Christchurch is a place where many people go walking and cycling either for their hobby or as part of general lifestyle.
This type of exercise is very good for our cardiovascular system and our heart and does have an effect on some musculature of our bodies.
However, when you're in your 50s and 60s it is a good idea to have a more holistic exercise that supports all of the muscles and joints of your body.
This is where resistance training to retain and build muscles is a must. Unless this is done on a regular basis you will be unable to slow down muscle loss.
Group exercise versus individual coaching.
Many of us go to yoga classes, Pilates, and other group workouts. Again, this is great exercise, also generally whole of body exercise.
However, in a group situation we all have to do the same thing, we do not get individual attention so we may even be doing the wrong thing or moving incorrectly that can even cause injuries.
The advantage of going to classes is generally the socializing as this is a necessary part of any health program.
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Therefore, I'd like to share some of the ideas behind my coaching for over 50s, because as the paragraphs above mentioned we may not be getting all of the correct muscle building activities that suit our particular needs and as often as our bodies require resistance and strength training.
Strength training for beginners over 50
If you have done little or no resistance training or perhaps, have never even been to a gym or had a personal trainer to start a program can be a daunting prospect.
This is when it's particularly important to choose a private gym so there is no one looking on, judging you and you have the chance to ask questions and fully understand what is involved exercising muscles.
You will also have an experienced trainer showing you the correct way to do exercises in a graduated manner. Plus, importantly some fun and laughter thrown in.
Strength training for women over 50
Any form of strength exercise is great for women over 50 as one of the main benefits is to increase muscle mass and improve bone density.
Post menopause bone density becomes an issue. In the same manner as we naturally lose muscle mass, the quality and density of our bones can decrease.
Some women may be more prone to osteopenia and osteoporosis due to their genetics or sedentary work and lifestyle.
This is why strength training needs to be part of your regular exercise.
Although so much advice is available online and even classes can be of benefit.
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The only way to get the best knowledge of movements that suit you, not only as a woman but will also be suitable for your work and lifestyle. Is to seek advice from a qualified trainer.
Strength training for men over 50
Generally, men really enjoyed pushing weights, resistance work and muscle building when they were younger.
As I mentioned above life circumstances change and exercise in generally and weight training in particular takes a back seat, often completely neglected.
It seems a shame that a hobby that men enjoyed is no longer a regular part of life in their 50’s and 60’s.
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However, sometimes due to age and lack of physical activity an older man’s body shape is certainly different from when they were younger.
Therefore, the standard local gym is no longer the welcoming place it once was, especially with the male tendency to be competitive.
That’s why Charlie’s private gym is just the place to sign up and rediscover your muscles!!