Strength Training for Women Over 60

sandygaylegunn
sandygaylegunn Posts: 87 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
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!

Replies

  • rachelleahsmom
    rachelleahsmom Posts: 442 Member
    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
    CLCinNOLA Posts: 82 Member
    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
    urloved33 Posts: 3,323 Member
    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
    sandygaylegunn Posts: 87 Member
    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
    sandygaylegunn Posts: 87 Member
    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.

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