85 and Fit: My Workout Routine

Exercise offers numerous benefits, including enhancing physical well-being, elevating moods, and even reducing the risk of age-related diseases.

This makes it particularly appealing for older adults to engage in regular physical activity.

Take the example of Ronell "Ronnie" Laitinen from St. Louis Park, Minnesota.

At 85, she actively works out with her personal trainer, Karina Wait, at Life Time gym in Edina, Minnesota. This routine has shown clear benefits for her.

"In the past two years, we've been working together," Laitinen mentioned, noting improvements in her upper body strength, balance, and flexibility.

Additionally, she's managed to counteract a condition that affects more than 70% of women aged 80 and above.

Addressing Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weak and prone to fractures. It affects approximately 10 million individuals over the age of 50, with 80% being women.

The disease occurs as bone mass diminishes over time, altering the structure and strength of bones.

Laitinen was on the verge of developing osteoporosis until she realized the benefits of exercise.

She initially began exercising to address various health issues but soon discovered its effectiveness in preventing this bone-weakening condition.

"I've always had a fondness for exercise and movement, but fitness became my focus as a means to maintain flexibility, strength, overall health, and combat osteoporosis," she explained.

Exercise can slow down bone loss and decrease the likelihood of stress fractures.

She also appreciates the mental boost it provides. Laitinen notes that exercise uplifts her spirits every time she engages in it, and it allows her to socialize with others.

Ronnie Laitinen’s Fitness Regimen

Upper Body

Laitinen aims to incorporate some form of exercise daily, often doing strength workouts every other day at the gym, including weekly sessions with her personal trainer.

Her training emphasizes physical therapy and strength-building exercises tailored to her needs.

For her upper body, Laitinen frequently performs lateral pulldowns (using a machine to pull a bar toward her chest to strengthen back muscles), bicep curls with dumbbells, tricep exercises, and lifts with kettlebells.

Lower Body

To maintain her lower body strength, Laitinen engages in Romanian deadlifts with barbells, squats, lunges, and glute bridges, which all contribute to strengthening her lower body.

Flexibility and Cardio

Laitinen complements her routine with cardio that enhances flexibility, such as walking a mile on the treadmill or track, aiming for daily walks. She also enjoys using the rowing machine for exercise.

Advice for Fellow Seniors

"Stay active, both indoors and outdoors, and try to keep a consistent workout schedule," advises Laitinen. "Enjoy being active, even when it's challenging.

Have fun, even if it means gritting your teeth and catching your breath!"

Source: parade

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.