Keeping Fit At Any Age
Powerlifter Helen Zechmeister at 91. Photo from Growing Old Is Not For Sissies II
, by Etta Clark. Highly recommended.
, by Etta Clark. Highly recommended.Several years ago I watched a segment on the television news regarding an Australian doctor's strength training program for the elderly. In a matter of months, even the most frail-looking grandparents were gleefuly piling plates on a leg-press machine. It was incredible to see. That's when I realised that age doesn't need to be any sort of a barrier to getting a good workout in. Just in case you need a little more convincing, here are a handful of examples. As you can see, it's possible to enjoy the benefits of strength training at any age.
50s The first time I remember seeing Serge Nubret on television - as a guest, not in a bodybuilding competition - he was in his 50s. Not that you could tell by looking at him. Superb physique.
60s What are you planning to do when you retire? Ada Thomas decided to take up jogging at age 65; ran her first marathon at 68; was winning her division by 69. Not bad at all. Or perhaps you're after something a little heavier. Here's an older, wiser Karl Gotch demonstrating just one of the many exercises he used throughout his incredible career - the Mace Swing.
70s At 75 adventurer and climber Yuichiro Miura is still very much at it. In fact, he recently returned from the summit of Everest. What were you doing last week? At 71, a spritely Dan Inosanto is still pushing extremely hard. Here he is demonstrating the Kali Sticks.
80s How about a spot of fencing? Seriously. Or perhaps some club swinging? Love it.
90s How about Powerlifter Helen Zechmeister (pictured at top); still going strong at 91. You've undoubtedly seen clips of Jack Lalanne working his magic on daytime TV many, many years ago. Seen any of his more recent appearances? Here he is on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, at 93.
100 And the big one : Ida Wasserman is still hitting the gym - and we're talking weights here, not a light cardio session - at 100. Inspirational.
Scott is the editor of strength-training site Straight to the Bar, and all-around fitness enthusiast. When he's not in the kitchen stuffing his face, he can generally be found engaging in cruel and unusual punishment in the backyard.
