The Strength You Need to Keep Doing What You Love
As a Healthy Aging Coach, I think a lot about what it takes to keep living in health … not just adding years to our life, but life to our years.
It’s not just about avoiding illness.
It’s about staying strong, energized, and capable, so we can keep doing the things we love, on our own terms.
And I truly believe:
Focusing on getting stronger is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves.
That’s why I want to share this with you today:
I feel stronger at 62 than I did in my 40s (and that's a good feeling).
And not because I’m doing anything extreme, but because I finally got consistent about getting stronger.
Why does strength matter, more than we think? Well, the biggie is -
Strength is the #1 predictor of independence as we age.
Not willpower. Not cardio. Not even balance.
It’s your muscle mass and functional strength - especially in your legs, core, and grip.
And the research backs it up:
Strength helps prevent injury, frailty, and falls
It improves blood sugar, metabolism, and brain health
It supports bone density and joint function
But beyond that? It helps you live your life with confidence, freedom, and ease. And another benefit:
In the words of Mark Rippetoe (Strength Trainer) … and words that make me laugh :).
So back to the basics. If you struggle with establishing a strength routine, you're not alone.
Let’s name the roadblocks - and make a plan to move through them:
I’ve experienced every one of these.
And if you're thinking, me too, you’re not alone - and you’re also not doing it wrong.
You just haven’t found the version that works for you - yet.
Here's what actually worked for me:
I joined a small group strength class at my local gym
I go to the 7am class, before I can talk myself out of it
I genuinely enjoy the people - the casual banter (and sometimes singing!) makes it feel like fun, not work
And once I’m in the car driving, I’m ready to be there - and 8am feels like a huge win (a very nice feeling to start the day with).
The key to my success to a great degree? Same day. Same time. Same crew.
Community keeps me coming back. They’re all my accountability partners.
So if you’ve struggled with motivation or consistency?
You’re not weak.
You’re just human.
And your real mission is to build a routine that works for you.
So, build your own plan.
Whether it’s 2 minutes or 20 … just start.
Make a plan that reflects who you are and what you need:
Need energy in the morning? Try a short circuit before the day starts.
Thrive with social connection? Join a class or go with a friend.
Feel better solo? Start with a 7-minute routine at home.
The point isn’t perfection.
The point is progress. SO THINK ABOUT THE FOLLOWING:
The 7-Minute Workout App
Includes squats, lunges, push-ups, wall sits, planks - all bodyweight. Each exercise is just 30 seconds. That’s it.
When I first tried it 10 years ago, I couldn’t hold a wall sit or do a side plank.
But I kept going. It's a great practice - especially when you don't have a lot of time.
The “Daily 10 / 25 / 50” Habit
Pick 5 strength movements and your number:
10 squats
10 lunges
10 sit-ups
10 push-ups
10-second plank
Or do 25. Or 50. Or pick different moves.
It’s about consistency - not intensity.
AND REMEMBER THIS:
It’s never too late to start.
Age should never be a barrier to anything we want to do. We just need the will … and a way that works. Start where you are. Keep it simple.
And give yourself permission to build strength slowly, sustainably, and in a way that brings you joy.
Let’s build strength that supports the life you want to keep living.
Because … we’re not chasing a look.
We’re chasing …Freedom. Capability. Confidence. Longevity.
You in? I hope so!