Betty Lindberg is a dedicated marathon runner. She has participated in nearly every AJC Peachtree Road Race and, in 2022, shattered the 5K world record for ages 95 to 99.

Meanwhile, Marion Beulke, who began competitive swimming at 75, remained active at 95. She was the oldest participant at the 2022 Pan Pacific Masters Games.

There are other impressive senior athletes proving that anyone can be fit regardless of age. So, if you’ve been looking for a fitness trainer for seniors to start your fitness journey, it’s your lucky day.

Here’s how TerraBella Thornblade can help you get fit.

Benefits of Working With a Fitness Trainer for Seniors

A personal trainer for the elderly can help seniors who want to be active and healthy but don’t know where to start. These older adults may have health conditions or injuries. Needless to say, they would greatly benefit from the guidance and expertise a fitness trainer can provide.

Seniors who work with a personal trainer enjoy tailored workouts. Since older adults’ health needs and abilities vary, trainers customize their workout routines. All of these workout plans aim to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and heart health.

They also take into account their clients’ preferences. After all, workouts shouldn’t just be safe and effective. They must also be fun to keep clients committed to their senior workout routines.

Fitness trainers for seniors also create a supportive and welcoming environment. They do this to help their clients socialize with peers. This can make fitness classes more fun for students, motivating them to interact with others and even build new friendships.

What to Look For in a Senior Fitness Trainer

Yes, there are many fitness tips for seniors online. However, there’s no substitute for the one-on-one attention a personal trainer can provide.

Remember, using proper form and technique is a significant part of preventing injuries during workouts. A fitness trainer can help you work on this.

Of course, these are just some qualities of a reliable personal trainer for seniors. To get the best results, check if they’re certified to work with elderly clients. Examples of certifications to look for include those offered by NASM, ACE, and ISSA.

It’s also good to check their experience. How long have they worked with seniors? Can they show examples of senior fitness programs they’ve designed?

References are also something any trainer will provide when asked. If they refuse to give you references, it’s a red flag. Lastly, you can always go for trainers who allow people to try their service for free, so you can decide if they’re a good fit for your fitness needs.

Working With a Fitness Trainer at TerraBella Thornblade

Our community supports Greer area seniors who aim to improve their health and well-being. We know first-hand the value of exercise for seniors, so we offer programs prioritizing our residents’ fitness goals.

TerraBella Thornblade’s senior fitness programs include tailored workouts. These are customized to meet individual needs and abilities. Residents concerned about working out can work with trainers who can modify exercises and guide them on safe equipment use.

In addition to modifying exercises, our personal trainers help residents stay on track. They assist with setting realistic goals and monitor their clients’ progress. If injuries or chronic conditions are present, they make adjustments to workout routines.

Beyond exercises, TerraBella Thornblade’s trainers also help residents with their nutritional needs. They also help seniors with managing stress and adopting positive lifestyle habits.

Maximize Fitness With Nutrition and Personal Training

Speaking of nutrition, you don’t have to be a professional fitness trainer to know that exercise alone may not be enough. That’s why when choosing a personal trainer for older people, it’s crucial to work with one who has a solid foundation in senior nutrition.

Older adults have specific caloric needs that must be met to maintain health and wellness. To fight against age-related changes affecting metabolism, muscle mass, etc., seniors must mind their diet. This can be achieved through consuming an assortment of foods.

A healthy plate usually contains lean protein, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. However, it’s worth noting that eating right can be a challenge for seniors with dietary restrictions. These may be due to food allergies, food intolerances, and medical conditions (e.g., dysphagia or trouble swallowing).

Personal trainers can work with nutritionists or dietitians to develop customized meal plans. This way, they can stay on top of residents’ calorie intake and nutrient balance while helping them stick to their workout plans.

Don’t Forget About Lifestyle Habits

A fitness trainer can help you optimize your workout routines, but they can only do some of the work. You must also eat well and ensure your lifestyle habits support healthy aging.

That means not missing your well visits and recommended screenings. During these appointments, healthcare providers will review your medications, functional abilities, etc.

When your doctors are updated on your health status, they can implement preventive measures to keep you healthier. It also helps to be part of a senior living community that assists its residents with medication management. Even if you don’t need that service right now, it might be helpful in the future.

Your community should also help support quality sleep since it’s vital to overall health and wellness. Lack of sleep can increase the risk of falling and other health problems. The good news is that regular workouts may help you fall asleep faster and better at night.

Achieve Your Fitness Goals at TerraBella Thornblade

Now that you know how a fitness trainer for seniors can help you start and commit to a workout plan, are you hiring one soon?

As a senior in Greer, SC, you can address your senior living needs and fitness goals by choosing a supportive community. TerraBella Thornblade can help you with that.

Our service-rich senior lifestyle programs empower our residents to take charge of their health. We round out our senior fitness programs with chef-prepared cuisines, social events, and more.