Strength Training for Women Over 60

sandygaylegunn

I have been doing an hour on the recumbent bike at my gym for 2.5 months. In addition to the bike, last week I started a strength training program. On oxygen 24/7, and 50 pounds overweight, you'd think I'd be too self-conscious. Ha! Not me! I think I am setting a good example at several levels. Before I started on the bike, I could hardly walk. Such progress!

I'd like to hear other gal's experience in strength training. Thanks!

rachelleahsmom

I don't really have anything to add to your post except congratulations and keep it up! I teach a Silver Sneakers class and have some awesome older adults in my class. Seeing their progress is amazing and I bet you feel amazing, too. :-)

CLCinNOLA

I am 64 years old and weigh 144 pounds more than I did in high school. Good for you, for riding the recumbent bike an hour a day! I am not doing that much cardio regularly yet, though I am working on it and plan to do so.. But I do love weight lifting. I use the weightlifting machines at my gym and some info about my usual workout is in my profile. I have been doing this for years and started out with much lower weights. I love weight lifting because I only compete with myself. Nothing more exhilarating than exceeding my personal best on a machine!

Weight lifting has eliminated many of the aches and pains that I thought were due to aging, and that my rheumatologist thought were due to osteoarthritis. Also, weight lifting makes me stronger and I feel younger and more capable. I still struggle with weight loss, but these advantages are plenty of motivation to continue.

urloved33

Its said to be the older women are the better our bodies respond to strength training. I have found this to be true. I congratulate you on your training and would like you to know you inspire me.

sandygaylegunn

Thanks on the congrats. I still don't walk very well, and don't think I could do aerobic exercises other than on the bike. Our gym is supposed to get a Silver Sneakers soon. Maybe by the time it starts I will have become more able to do it. Again, thanks for your reply.

sandygaylegunn

Thanks for your encouraging reply! Yes, I have had chronic pain issues as well as the emphysema. I am not certain why I find myself so attracted to strength training. My oldest daughter is a personal trainer, and years ago before my illness, she was my personal training. I had never been athletic at all, and that was the only period in my life that I was physically fit. I long for that again.