Active Older Adults and People Over Age 40
As we age, our body still requires exercise, maybe even more so. However, our choices need to be mindful; supporting our goals and safely. Moreover, we need to think about our form much more carefully, so we do not injure or re-injure ourselves. Great form also allows us to reach our intended goals, with more ease and efficiency. Additionally, when possible, we want to include exercises that keep our mind flexible and invigorated.
When I work with people over 40, which I am myself (52 in April), I work from a holistic perspective. I do a thorough intake assessment. I ask questions about injury history, activity history, fitness interests and inclinations, fitness fears and fitness strengths. Because of my background in education, I also ask them about learning styles. I want to know how my clients learn best, so I teach to their strengths. Next we do physical assessments to test where people are strong and weak. We also look at alignment, mobility, balance, flexibility and breathing capacity. Lastly, we look at the person’s goals and then we start to create the beginnings of a fitness plan. I try to create a plan that makes sense with the persons schedule and lifestyle, so that we can reach smaller goals on the way to the big ones. Together we look at what their fitness trajectory will be.
Once we start our workout together, it is a partnership. Part of what I think makes me great at my work is my initiation of communication. When we are on the same page we will know what is working and what isn’t workout for you. My job is to challenge your body in a way that produces fatigue while being safe within your limitations. Your job is to let me know if we are doing that in a way that works for you and your body. We work within the framework. We go with the flow of what your body needs. Depending if it works for you, I offer a fitness plan that you can also do while you are on your own. This is so you can continue to attain your goals throughout the week. The amount of fitness you do on your own is based on your schedule, your capacity, and your lifestyle. I also love when people utilize me for accountability. You are welcome to text me regularly to book end your fitness or with questions. I can also text you to remind you of a health or fitness commitment you made for yourself, if that helps you to follow through. Accountability is huge predictor of success. We love when you succeed!
From years of working with older humans, I have learned many ways to support people in not losing their strength and in most instances, gaining their strength, flexibility, balance, dexterity, endurance, and health. I have worked in a intergenerational dance company, a day spa for elders, for Easthampton Senior Center, and with Strength for Life Health and Fitness Center. All these experiences were very different from each other and have not only made working with medium aged and older people my specialty because of all I know, but also because I truly enjoy my time with these humans.
Up until the pandemic I was the assistant director at Strength for Life Health and Fitness Center. Under the tutelage of Dr. Josef Arnould, my knowledge base and experience working with medium and older people grew exponentially. I also hold an Active Older Adult certification through AFFA. and an Ageless Certification from IDEA. Working with people my age, older, and much older brings me a great deal of joy and I believe the feeling is mutual.
Please write me or call me for a Free Consult: amydawnspiritfit@gmail.com (413)923-2554
Newbies and Fitness Phobics
There are many reasons why newbies and fitness phobics enjoy their fitness experience with me. I have been told many times I am a nonthreatening, safe person, to work with. I really love people. I offer caring, nonjudgmental, and present support for my clients. When you feel you can’t do it, I can tell you what you need to do, how to do it and coach you through. We work cooperatively throughout our sessions. When there is fear coming up for my client, I try to follow their lead and go at the speed that we agree works for them best. Humor matters and I love to make my clients laugh, even if it’s not in my job description. And while I am not your therapist, I get that exercise can bring stuff up for some people and I don’t judge. Most of my clients leave not only stronger and more physically fit, but happier. This is why I love my work so much. You can do it and I will help you make it happen!
If you are interested in assessment with me, please send me a message at:
amydawnspiritfit@gmail.com (413)923-2554
People Who Are Recovering From an Injury That Are Ready to Start Training Again.
After an accident of an injury, it’s sometimes scary to go back to working out. People head to their physical therapist and they regain most of their mobility and even after their PT tells them they can go back to exercising, they might have some anxiety about it. They want to exercise, but fear they will re-injure themselves. They want to work with someone who understands their injury and will help them safely get in shape. I am an excellent trainer for people in this situation. As I mentioned above, I have been at this for a very long time. Besides experience, I have studied many disciplines of fitness and I follow the lead of my client, so they feel safe both physically and emotionally. I have earned the trust of many the nervous client, by listening to their needs and helping them to strengthen their body and avoid re-injuring them in the process. Once in a while an old injury will occur after a session and we use that experience to learn what works and what doesn’t. We either modify or avoid that exercise, especially until the injury heals or forever, depending on what surfaced and the clients needs. There are so many ways to work our muscles. There are also so many ways to stretch our body and release our fascia. One size doesn’t fit all. With my expertise and supportive encouragement for self advocacy, we almost always figure out how to strengthen the clients body in a way that both feels and is safe for them.
Please message me or call to book a Free Consult:
amydawnfitspirit@gmail.com
Fit Spirit Personal Training 