Val’s View:
Fitness After 55
My Fitness Journey as a 55+ Woman
In the past, it was deemed nearly impossible for women to move and strengthen their bodies beyond the age of 55. Today, women are defying conventions and redefining the outdated narrative that exercise is impossible after a certain age.
I believe in empowering other women with inspiring stories and practical tips, so let me tell you all about the transformative benefits of embracing movement and health at this stage of life!
Breaking Stereotypes
Aging has traditionally been associated with slowing down to a sedentary lifestyle, especially for women. I am challenging this idea and taking control of my well-being through the strength of my body and mind.
I’m learning that fitness is more than just physical activity—it’s about cultivating a mindset of strength, resilience, and joy. This dual focus of mindfulness and physical activity can be the best holistic approach to aging well.
A Potential for Growth
We never really stop growing. Our ears and nose keep growing forever! Similarly, our muscles are capable of becoming stronger with the right kind of activities. Reclaiming a zest for life and discovering the pleasure of movement can stave off boredom, especially after retirement. Every step taken goes towards better health. An integral part of any realistic exercise practice is setting goals and rewarding yourself when you achieve them.
How to Increase Energy
Finding activities that spark joy is really what’s gonna help with sticking to an exercise routine. It may not feel like it at first, but being active creates more energy. One of the best and most natural ways to start getting fit is by walking. For a little added motivation, walk with someone else to get some quality social time in. Take different routes to experience nature and avoid boredom. Water is especially calming for me, so sometimes I walk along the bay near my house. I also enjoy swimming, which provides a cardiovascular workout without putting strain on the joints. I love the full-body stretch that comes from being in the water.
Supportive Communities
Speaking of stretching, yoga and pilates are low impact exercises that are especially good for women over 55. Both help with flexibility and core strength, as well as balance, which is tremendously important as we age. Often there are yoga and pilates groups that meet in community centers, churches, or after hours at local high schools. These can be less expensive than classes at a dedicated studio.
Dance is my favorite way to move without even realizing I’m exercising. I get lost in the music and forget to stress about anything else in my life. When I’m concentrating on the steps of the dance, it helps with my memory function and strengthens neural pathways. Never underestimate the power of joining a group or class. The encouragement and sense of belonging that community gives can really make all the difference in staying engaged.
Lively Ladies
Through Anthony’s, I recently met Gail, who is in her sixties and thriving. She is a pioneer of aging well. By practicing her boxing skills and lifting weights, she is a fitness ambassador for women over sixty. She brings her intuition and courage wherever she goes. From the board room to the boxing ring, this lady is an inspiring example of how to keep chasing your dreams.
I also met Chelie, a 62-year-old elder care advocate who has been playing tennis since high school. She does a tennis clinic once a week, as well as a private lesson, and plays in a Palm Beach league that has nearly 1,800 active women participating. She says it’s fun to be competitive, plus the cognitive benefits of playing keep her sharp- along with puzzles and her stitching group.
Miranda, now 58, has been a close friend of mine since we were teenagers. She has several grandchildren who teamed up with her kids to buy her a membership at Life Time Fitness a few years back. She was struggling with some back issues, but she’s been in less pain since she started going there. Her gym has all the recovery stations she needs for her pre-existing conditions. Now she can keep up with the little ones!
My friend Anne Marie is 65 and quite lively. She loves belly dancing and diving, and is so amazingly flexible. For the past 11 years, Anne has done 2500 splits in 40 countries. She’s traveled the world doing splits, and she’s not done yet: she’s going for the world record! If her story isn’t motivating, I don’t know what is.
Never Say Never
One thing I’ve realized is that your athletic ability doesn’t have to be tied to who you were in the past. I was a skinny kid and didn’t start getting interested in exercise until I was about 25. Then I started a fun class with small hand weights, and I fell in love with the group dynamic. From then on, I’ve sought out group settings when I want motivation to work out.
The self-discipline that exercise builds can help you face life’s challenges with finesse. Be brave and get physical- your body and your brain will thank you for the rest of your days!
XOXO,
Val
