We joke all the time here at Fire+Ice about squatting below parallel. The reason we give everyone is simple, so you can get off the toilet when you’re 90. All jokes aside, we really do mean it. Why do aging adults end up in assisted-living facilities? It comes down to not being able to get up off of the toilet. It may sound crass, but it’s a very real thing.
More broadly, the reason aging adults go to assisted-living facilities is loss of independence. As adults age, basic movement becomes much more difficult. People retire, they are less active, and they have fewer reasons to get up and out of the house. So they sit all day, and their muscles atrophy.
That’s why it’s so important to stay active as we age. We need to find or stick to an exercise routine to preserve our independence for as long as possible—not just for our own sakes, but also so our children won’t have to take care of us (or pay someone else to).
The exercise needs of the aging population vary by degree, not kind. What is standing up from the toilet? An air squat. What happens when someone falls and gets back up? A burpee. How do groceries get unloaded from the car? With a farmer’s carry.
Aging adult athletes may not be breaking gym records, but they can certainly perform modified versions of everything the rest of the class is doing—and a good coach will know how to guide them. Intensity is relative for every athlete in the gym, while range of motion and movement goals stay the same.
Strength training is also critical for aging adults because it helps prevent and reverse osteoporosis (brittle bones). Even minor slips and falls often result in broken bones in aging men and women with low bone density. Lifting heavy objects increases that bone density and reduces risk of injury.
Group fitness classes may or may not be appropriate for all aging adults. At Fire+Ice, we have several 50-plus-year-old athletes, and they do great in classes. Others choose to start with personal training. The point is that they get or remain active.
It is our passion to improve the health and quality of life of everyone that comes through our programs. Our program is not a 30, 60, or even 90 day sprint. It’s a lifelong journey, and we want you to get up off that toilet on your own for as long as possible.
If you or someone you know needs a little guidance improving health and fitness, just schedule a free consultation HERE. I’d love to sit and chat with you.
If you need a little inspiration to get you fired up this morning just check out of few of our favorite people that continue to put their health first
Susanna Urlik (Right)
Mickey Birnbaum (Center)
Shifrah Rosenburg (Left)
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Coach MM
