Online Fitness Training Benefits: Your Pathway to Enhance Vitality
Hi, I'm Josh! I'm a former gym trainer turned virtual coach. My approach to coaching is to meet people where they are in their fitness journey, consider their current situation, goals, and limitations, and design a personalized fitness plan that works for them. Whether they have a busy schedule, physical limitations, or other reasons preventing them from achieving their fitness goals, I'm here to help them break down those barriers and improve their overall fitness and wellness. My mission is to enhance vitality and help you maintain an active lifestyle throughout the aging process. With virtual coaching, fitness knows no bounds and can happen anywhere.
Shifting Perspectives on Retirement and Vitality
If you haven't retired yet, you may consider continuing your professional journey beyond age 65. The U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging's 2017 data shows that retirement trends are changing, and more Americans are willing to work beyond age 65. In 2004, the projection was that one in three individuals aged 50 would work past 65, marking a shift in retirement expectations. This data serves as a mirror, prompting me to reevaluate my views on work, aging, and pursuing a meaningful life in my clients’ later chapters.
The concept of "work" now extends far beyond traditional employment, encompassing substantial contributions to society through volunteering. This longevity underscores the importance of maintaining fitness and mobility as we age. To assist this life goal, working individuals and retirees are turning to technology to engage in virtual workouts provided by dedicated trainers. The connection built between client and trainer provides a powerful connection and promotes social engagement and nurtures a sense of belonging.
The Benefits of Health Technology for Aging in Place
Seniors may face various barriers when adopting technology, including a lack of confidence and physical challenges (Anderson & Perrin, 2017). Even for younger generations, setting up new gadgets can be daunting–we all remember the struggle of trying to quickly learn how to use Zoom in 2020! However, once online and using the tech, seniors engage extensively with devices and online content (Pew Research Center, 2017). Specifically, health technology can be a game-changer for seniors who wish to live safely, independently, and comfortably in their homes and communities. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, aging in place is a concept that supports this pursuit, regardless of age, income, or ability level. With the help of various gadgets, seniors can monitor their movement, receive alerts for falls, and be reminded to take medication, enabling them to age in place with confidence.
Luckily, technology has made building and maintaining meaningful relationships easier for clients and fitness professionals. With just a click of a button, my clients and I can stay connected and share updates on the latest books we're reading and recipes we're trying, all while working towards their fitness goals. After their workout, they can quickly join another virtual call to attend a painting or language class without worrying about commuting. On top of enhancing wellness, health technology promotes a sense of independence and pride. This is good news for those who prefer to remain in the comfort of their own home and delays the need for an assisted care facility. Integrating technology and virtual fitness training ensures that seniors can access expert guidance and continue independent living.
Building Bonds Beyond Fitness
While many seniors keep a slimmed-down calendar, others may need more social engagement.
Enter: virtual trainer.
Trainers usually evolve into more than just a fitness coach; they become your partner on your journey toward an active and independent lifestyle. My connections with my clients are often profound and provide a sense of belonging and purpose, building bonds with empathy and compassion, which can be just as motivating as the workouts themselves. This individualized support fosters inclusiveness, combats isolation, and provides emotional support.
To learn more about my work with my clients, explore my Testimonials Page to read about clients' experiences and how I've helped them reach fitness goals while building meaningful connections.
Meeting You Where You Are
Gym anxiety is a common challenge for many, often stemming from fears of judgment, crowds, lack of confidence, and body image concerns. When working at a gym, I had to search for quiet nooks or corners where clients would feel at ease. Now with my virtual training sessions, clients can work out while enjoying the privacy of their homes, eliminating the stress of a physical gym setting. Virtual fitness training can be a valuable solution to accommodate your needs, whether you are far from a physical gym or prefer the comfort of your home environment.
With proper training, exercises build confidence and strength, and create a foundation for individuals to feel more prepared and at ease when attending a class at their local gym or continuing their fitness journey online.
At home, we have access to a variety of items we can use for exercise and fitness.
Banisters and railings can be used to attach resistance tubing or to hold onto during balance exercises.
Stairways and steps can be utilized for balance work and step movements.
Walls can be used with stability balls and for stretching.
Countertops can be used for push-ups and one-armed rows.
Chairs and stools are great for sitting and standing exercises.
Towels can come in handy for bolstering joints in certain positions to enhance posture.
Pillows can be used as bolsters but also as stability training aids.
By being resourceful and utilizing household items, individuals can achieve their fitness goals in the comfort and convenience of their own homes.
Oftentimes older adults often face barriers to physical activity programs. These obstacles range from concerns about pain, the perceived risk of injury, and a lack of professional guidance to the uncertainty surrounding appropriate exercise guidelines (Bethancourt et al., 2014). Addressing these concerns involves breaking barriers and tailoring workouts to confront specific physical challenges. Meeting you where you are means appropriately addressing various physical challenges such as back pain, shoulder discomfort, and knee replacements. It is essential to incorporate safe pre- and post-rehab exercises at home to maintain an active lifestyle and optimal joint health.
Clients often express gratitude for meeting them where they are. That means I accept them where they are in their journey and tailor exercises to meet their specific needs. Things like lack of sleep, or emotional fatigue during the session are made easier with low-impact, restorative exercises.
Your Journey to Vitality through Online Training
It’s crucial that my clients empower themselves with online fitness training to help maintain vitality as they age. Your goal for a healthier and more active lifestyle is available to you right now.
Get one step closer to meeting your goals and embrace the support of a dedicated trainer and the convenience of virtual fitness training. I offer a variety of training options that suit clients’ schedules and needs.
You can opt for one-hour, 45-minute, or 30-minute sessions. Alternatively, you can enroll in the Breaking Barriers Coaching Program, which enables you to slowly overcome hurdles while building a foundation for growth. Connect with me for a personalized consultation and take the first step to a more vibrant and vital future!
References:
Bethancourt, H.J. et al. (2014). Barriers to and facilitators of physical activity program use among older adults. Clinical Medicine & Research, 12, 1-3, 10-20
Trainor, Scott, and Darrin Tangeman. "Military Vets Serving Twice." PM. Public Management, vol. 101, no. 3, 2019, pp. 38-40.
https://www.aging.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Aging%20Workforce%20Report%20FINAL.pdf
Delgado, A., Prihoda, T., Nguyen, C., Hicks, B., Smiley, L., & Taverna, M. (2016). Professional Caregivers' Oral Care Practices and Beliefs for Elderly Clients Aging In Place. Journal of Dental Hygiene (Online), 90(4), 244-248.
