Train to Age & Flourish - Interview with Joni Grant

Episode Summary

Age is just a number, and it has NOTHING to do with your ability to start your fitness journey! On this episode of the Fit is Freedom Podcast, I’m joined with the amazing author and fitness guru Joni Grant.  We discuss the importance of fitness as you age, what you should be training, and why you need to embrace the journey and love what you do. 

The excuse of “I’m too old to start” just doesn’t hold any water. Joni herself, an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer, Functional Aging Specialist, and Kettlebell Coach, didn’t even start thinking about improving her health and doing something about her aging until she was 58 years old! Since then, she has competed in powerlifting meets, learned to parkour, become a kettlebell master, and written her book, Train to Age. 

If You’re Losing It, You Need to Train It

We can’t simply walk our way to better health if we’re losing muscle mass as we age. It’s important to find ways to incorporate strength training, endurance, and everything in between to keep up your fitness.

Take note of your body. If you’re realizing something is a struggle, it more than likely means that you’ll need to train that particular part. For example, if you’re slow to get out of the chair, build your lower body. It’s amazing what we can improve by targeting our weaknesses and making them strong, no matter our age! 

Train for What You Want to Do

Not only should you train if you’re noticing a weakness, you should also focus your training for what you want to do in life. Joni has trained clients with a wide variety of aspirations and goals. Her clients have goals ranging from simply wanting to pick up a grandchild or being able to easily get out of a chair, to climbing Machu Picchu.  Have a goal in mind as a motivator! 

 

LINKS

Joni Grant Website and Blog

Joni Grant Instagram

Joni Grant’s book - Train to Age

Joni Grant Facebook Group

Living Fit Workouts

 

Find Things You Love

It’s important to train in a variety of ways, but Joni Grant and I discuss the importance of finding ways to train that you actually enjoy! Hate strength training with free weights? Try a kettlebell! Hate running? Try hiking or riding the stationary bike! 

Improving your health doesn’t have to be a drag. If it’s not fun, it’s not sustainable.  Find something to love and you’ll start to see results that you love! 

How to Get Started

No matter your age, the best time to start is NOW if you want to improve your health and fitness! Figuring out where to begin can be overwhelming, so here are the three top jumping off points according to Joni…

Find a Trainer

Especially for the inexperienced or people who are a little rusty when it comes to working out, the best way to get started is to find a quality trainer that works for you. They can help you develop a customized plan.  They will guide you to building the muscle and mobility that you desire while teaching you the ropes of fitness. 

Take a Class

If you can’t find a trainer you like or you’d prefer a more social setting, try taking a class! Local senior and civic centers will typically offer a variety of classes. Look for one that sounds interesting and just dive right in! 

Be Brave 

When you’re putting yourself out there, have courage. Be brave and take that first step towards a better life and a better you!