Whenever I can I like to help people better understand the work I do as a personal trainer. I often encounter misunderstandings about what it's like to work with a personal trainer, so here are five common myths about in home personal training for seniors that I'd like to debunk.
1. Personal training is for athletes. It can be for athletes, 
but the people who get the most out of personal training are often at the beginner end of the fitness spectrum. By learning good, safe techniques and healthy lifestyle habits, seniors who work with a personal trainer can dramatically improve their health, functionality and independence with no athleticism required.
2. It's expensive. You might be surprised! A session with a personal trainer typically runs about as much as a massage, a mani-pedi or a hair style, and less than a visit to a chiropractor or your physician. And if working regularly with a personal trainer helps you delay entering assisted living or nursing care by a year or two, how much would that save you?
3. I would need a home gym. Not necessary. If you have home fitness equipment, we can design a program that puts it to good use. But if all you have is some open space on your floor, your trainer can bring all the gear you'll need to get a good workout.
4. I can't do it because I have arthritis, diabetes or [fill in the blank with your own issue]. There's no doubt that some of the illnesses that come with advancing age can put a cramp in your style, but whatever your limitations, we can find some activity that will help you feel as good as possible. In fact, there are few health conditions that aren't improved by the right kind of physical activity. Just be sure you choose a personal trainer who is specially trained to work with seniors and special conditions.
5. I already know how to exercise. Well, of course you do! Most of us have some idea of what we need to be doing to remain healthy as we age. A personal trainer can help make your workouts even more efficient and effective by designing a workout just for your abilities and interests. And she can take into account any limitations you have that can be worked around or even corrected.
As our society puts more and more value on healthy longevity, it's up to each of us to do our part by exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet. In home personal training for seniors can help provide the guidance, structure and motivation to make it happen.
(Image credit: martinan / 123RF Stock Photo)
