WHO SAYS YOU CAN’T GET STRONG AT 80?
For Joan and Lou, strength training in their 80s has brought strength, confidence, balance, and independence—and proven that it is never too late.
Tell me about your life before strength training. What made you decide to start lifting weights in your 70s or 80s?
Joan: I always enjoyed walking and hiking, but I realized it wasn’t enough to prevent bone loss, build upper-body strength, improve my balance, and help prevent falls. My mother fell outside her house one winter night in her mid-80s and couldn’t get up. Thankfully, a neighbor heard her calling for help. That experience stayed with me.
Lou: Initially, I resisted strength training because I had been an avid tennis player and walker for years. I thought that was enough.
What were your biggest doubts when you first tried Sparkle Fitness?
Joan: I worried about injuring myself by lifting weights that were too heavy for someone my age. After four knee replacements and arthritis, I cannot always do every move perfectly, but Jacynta always offers adaptations that get results.
Lou: I decided to try Sparkle Fitness because I could do it at home on Zoom. I had low expectations and started with very light or no weights. At first, I could not do many repetitions and was not crazy about it, but I stuck with it because I saw it helped my weight loss. I became proud of my progress.
Can you remember the moment you realized, “I’m stronger than I thought I could be”?
Joan: After about two weeks, I progressed from 10-pound to 15-pound weights for some exercises and a 35-pound weight for deadlifts and sumo squats. I really surprised myself!
Lou: I realized how much stronger I was when my tennis opponents complimented me on how much better I was playing and how much more endurance I had. I especially enjoyed hearing younger players say they would hate admitting they had been beaten by an eighty-something-year-old.
How has strength training changed your life?
Joan: As a widow living by myself, I am able to take care of my house, do yardwork, carry my own luggage, and remain independent. Lou: I love being able to say I don’t need someone to walk me in for medical procedures. It feels great to turn down help carrying my shopping bags to the car.
What do people get wrong about women in their 80s?
Joan: I feel like 80 is the new 60; it’s only a number. There are still plenty of trails to explore, hikes to enjoy, and activities to share with my grandchildren. I’d rather be the oldest person on the trails than the youngest person in a nursing home.
Lou: I have confidence that I can get off the floor after retrieving my dog’s ball or pick myself up if I fall. I can assist friends and family instead of the reverse. I’m the oldest person in my cul-de-sac, and often the one people call for help.
If another woman your age is wondering whether it’s too late to start, what would you say?
Joan: You can always start with easy movements and light weights and progress from there. Go at your own pace and comfort level. Your strength, stamina, balance, and endurance can improve.
Lou: Make tomorrow your day one of strength training. It’s not the years in your life but the life in your years that counts. It’s never too late to start living your best life. Join me in keeping the old lady out!
For more information on Sparkle Wellness, reach out to Jacynta Harb at sparkleanewyou.com or 404-242-5062.
