Darlene Sims’s doctor recently told her she was on the verge of developing type 2 diabetes and should start taking medication.
Darlene, a 58-year-old educator, said no way.
“I convinced my doctor to give me six months to take care of this through diet and exercise,” says Darlene. “And I’m getting there.”
Darlene’s fitness journey is just beginning. But it is one many people can relate to after age 50, 60, or 70.
She wasn’t familiar with fitness, having devoted herself to family and career for decades.
But then came that catalyst, the warning from her doctor, and Darlene’s strong reaction against being dependent on medication when she could do something about it, instead.
This kind of event is common later in life. Maybe you’ve experienced something like it.
- You get winded just walking to the mailbox.
- You can’t travel in retirement like you’d dreamed because you’re overweight and deconditioned.
- You can’t get on the floor and play with your grandkids.
It’s after this sad realization that many of us do what Darlene did.
We say, “No way.”
She’s Not Alone
According to a 2022 AARP survey, 75% of adults over 50 say they want to stay healthy and independent for as long as possible, and more than half worry about losing mobility and strength as they age.
At the same time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 4 in 5 older adults have at least one chronic health condition. Many of them are preventable or manageable through exercise and nutrition.
For many people, the turning point comes clearly, and they become determined to feel better, avoid medication, stay active, and enjoy life.
But many older adults don’t know where to start, like Darlene. They feel intimidated by traditional gyms, unsure of what exercises are safe, or discouraged by fitness marketing that seems aimed at younger people.
That’s why we create welcoming spaces, inclusive programming, and positive messaging that supports people in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond. It helps more people like Darlene say, “No way,” and start making meaningful changes on their terms, in their time.
She’s on the Move Now
Since that visit to the doctor, Darlene has begun walking, aiming for the coveted 10,000 steps a day.
She took her first Pilates class in the park near her home.
And she was beaming after her first yoga class, also outdoors, in her townhome community.
She tried a big-box gym but doesn’t like it much, preferring coaching and structure as a newbie.
“I prefer to be outdoors rather than in a gym,” she says. “I’m just trying to figure out something I like that doesn’t feel like a chore. I’m figuring myself out.”
Now, that sounds like a terrific project for anyone at any age. Here’s to finding yourself and improving your health and fitness! Call us today to get started on your own path now.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.