It’s a call for help that many aging adults dread but often find themselves facing—the struggle to get off the toilet. While it may sound crass, the reality is that this difficulty is a significant factor that leads some to assisted-living facilities. However, at TREBEL, we believe in addressing the root cause: the loss of independence that comes with aging.
As we age, basic movements become more challenging. Retirement, reduced activity, and fewer reasons to leave the house contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, leading to muscle atrophy. To combat this, staying active becomes paramount, not just for personal well-being but also to alleviate the burden on future caregivers, whether they be family or hired professionals.
Exercise plays a crucial role in preserving independence as we age. It’s not about breaking gym records or competing at an elite level; it’s about maintaining functionality in everyday tasks. Consider standing up from the toilet—an Air Squat. Getting up after a fall—a Get-Up. Unloading groceries from the car—a Farmers Carry. These are movements integral to daily life, and incorporating them into an exercise routine can make a significant difference.
The exercise needs of aging adults vary, but the principles remain the same. While aging adult athletes may not set records in the gym, a good coach understands how to guide them through modified versions of exercises. Intensity is relative for every athlete, but the focus on range of motion and movement goals remains consistent.
Strength training takes center stage in the fitness regimen for aging adults, playing a crucial role in preventing and reversing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by brittle bones. With low bone density, even minor slips and falls can result in serious injuries. Lifting heavy objects contributes to increased bone density, reducing the risk of fractures.
At TREBEL, we recognize that group fitness classes may not be suitable for every aging adult. Some thrive in our small group personal training sessions, while others prefer staying with one on one private sessions for a while. The key is to encourage and facilitate an active lifestyle tailored to individual needs. This is why everyone that trains with us has their own individual training plan that is created by their coach specifically for them to address their own specific needs and goals.
It’s important to note that fitness is not about winning competitions or setting records. The goal is to stay out of nursing homes, to break free from the limitations that age can impose, and to avoid being trapped on the toilet. It’s a commitment to daily exercise for the sake of independence and a fulfilling life.
The vast majority of our members at TREBEL are not elite athletes, and that’s perfectly okay. They may not break records or win competitions, but they consistently engage in personalized training sessions to ensure they can navigate daily life with ease. Every Air Squat, Get-up, or Farmers Carry is a step towards maintaining their independence and enjoying a vibrant, active lifestyle.
To wrap this thing up, at TREBEL, we champion the idea that age should not be a barrier to fitness and independence. By embracing tailored exercise routines, strength training, and a commitment to staying active, aging adults can break free from the limitations that may otherwise lead them to assisted-living facilities. Join us in the pursuit of a healthier, more independent tomorrow—because at TREBEL, we believe in empowering every stage of life.