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“Those who think they have no time for exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness” ~Earl of Derby
As a Masters athlete and Coach (63 years young), I’m interested in ways to improve and motivate the senior population to exercise. I constantly hear the same excuses, especially when I explain my CrossFit background. I believe CrossFit has taken a bad rap over the years and in some respect, we have brought it upon ourselves. We have pushed the image of extremely fit athletes pushing themselves to insane limits with workouts that are used by elite groups like the Navy Seals. I think that now, with the spread of a worldwide pandemic, we find ourselves questioning many aspects of daily life. Exercise is no longer a hobby, or something the other guy does to look good at the beach. Today it is about survival. Especially in the older population, we cannot allow our bodies to atrophy and become a host for a deadly virus to invade and weaken us to the point of intubation. This virus is stronger when we are weaker, chronic ailments allow the virus to attach more easily to our lungs and suffocate us. Cardiorespiratory fitness is essential to longevity. Studies show that as fitness improves, mortality and morbidity rates are lowered. As we build muscular strength and we improve bone density and balance, we improve our chances of surviving a fall as we age. Many chronic conditions can be eliminated with regular fitness. Most of us grew up watching Jack LaLanne, who believed that the health of a nation was tied to the health of its population. About 75% of every dollar spent on health care is spent to treat chronic disease. If this pandemic is to survive, it needs weakened immune systems and a host who has a lower level of fitness. It preys on the weak. My focus here is to help people eliminate the excuses and get off the couch and move.
But Coach, I’m too old for CrossFit.
Yes, many of our movements can be difficult to master, but we start at zero for everyone. Each movement is tailored to the individual and we focus on functional movements. This isn’t a bicep curl exercise that serves no purpose other than building big arms, this is about being able to lift the dog food bag, or getting groceries out of the car. Our programs are meant to improve longevity and quality of life.
OK, but CrossFit looks hard and I’m not in good shape.
That’s the point, CrossFit works…for everyone, regardless of fitness level. We scale our movements to meet your specific needs and we care about all of our clients/athletes. You will not only see an improvement in your physical appearance, you will gain strength and endurance; something you will need in this new World of ours. You will boost your memory, help combat arthritis, and help alleviate other chronic pain issues you may have. I’m not going to lie, CrossFit is hard, but as Arnold Schwarzenegger once said
"Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.”
But Coach, are you sure it’s safe? Can I really learn to do the exercises like the rest of the group?
Absolutely, we have athletes from every age. Kids as young as 7, and Seniors in their 70’s. We emphasize safety during movement above all else. You are never put in a position to attempt something before your body can maintain optimal posture and stabilization. CrossFit addresses another important aspect of our lives and that is building a strong community.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” ~Proverbs 27:17
Our community is built around each other and we leave no man behind. If you stay on the path, we guarantee you will see an improvement in your physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing.
This is no longer an option, we must be vigilant and be ready for the next test, and it will come. Time to change your mindset from I can’t do it, to I must do it. If you need help on your journey, remember we are here and ready to help.
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” -C.S.Lewis
Live Long and Stay Strong
Coach Steve
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