You’ve heard the new truth: sitting is not healthy. But the older one gets, the more applicable that becomes. In general, our body parts do not wear out from use. However, what is not used will wear out sooner rather than later.
My journey with exercise through the years led me to strength and conditioning training with kettlebells. At 61, I decided to obtain the gold standard of kettlebell certification through StrongFirst. After three days of grueling workouts, I obtained my Level 1 certification, and not quite a year later, I was certified at Level 2. Admittedly, I am not the norm.
Through my group kettlebell classes at the Canton Family YMCA, I can attest to truths regarding successes made by those who train movement on a regular basis. Students with fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and knee and hip replacements are all able to successfully train with kettlebells in a supervised, appropriate setting. I have trained with students as young as eight up to 84 years of age—kettlebell training is scalable to an individual’s capabilities.
As you think about your exercise routine (or lack of one), think about this test. Try sitting on the floor without using your hands or knees. Most are able to do this. Now, get up without using your hands or knees. Not so easy, right? This is a new test with respect to flexibility and strength. There are those who, if they fall, cannot get back up to get help.
Train your body to move for functional, everyday living—carry your groceries and put them away; open a jar; mow the grass; chase the kids; live your life! Dr. Mark Cheng says it best: “Avoiding a challenge strips you of the chance to evolve. Look for it, accept it, embrace it and evolve from it.” iBi
