Those of us over 50 should not shy away from the
functional/unconventional training seen here at My Mad Methods. The advantages
of these fun and challenging workouts have a lot to offer people coming up to
retirement age, and many Baby Boomers who have had limited success with the “standard
“ gym environment find that the intelligent application of these techniques
rescue us from the boredom of bodybuilding-style workouts. This
hybrid/alternative style of training will give you new goals to strive for and
can ignite a competitive fire not seen among your contemporaries cruising on golf
carts.
It is my dream to build a legion of grey-haired warriors (male & female) flipping tires, pulling sleds, and swinging hammers staying strong, vital, and alert into advanced years. But remember, I said “intelligent” application, it is not simply a matter of trading your Metamucil for creatine; in this battle against decrepitude we need to plan our strategy and pick our weapons wisely.
Unconventional Training Tip 1: Learn from the Professionals
First off, look for a reputable trainer. Fortunately, websites and magazines like My Mad Methods list a multitude of qualified professionals, and many of them have experience with older clients. All of them are experts in their fields and miles ahead of the fitness center “trainers” who took a three hour seminar on kettlebells or ropes or clubs and feel qualified to advise you. If you don’t live close to any of the trainers in My Mad Methods and still want to go it alone, contact one and ask if they will train you by e-mail. Many of them also have unconventional DVDs to offer.
Unconventional Training Tip 2: Use a Timer
Most of the training tools work better with a timer (how do you count reps with a sled or ropes?). A timer is inexpensive and manipulating the work/rest time is more effective for kettlebell, club, or macebell training and offers an endless variety, rather than just adding sets and reps.
Unconventional Training Tip 3: What to do When Your Muscles Say "GO," but Your Joints say "NO"
Many people past 50 who never train are already wearing support gear, knee wraps, back braces, etc, so don’t be embarrassed to keep your joints warm and supported during your workouts. Remember, we take our braces off after the workout while many over 50 wear them all day, every day.
Unconventional Training Tip 4: Lifting Belts
Many unconventional trainers omit a lifting belt and this is a personal choice, but for those who do want to use one, I would suggest an old-fashioned leather one with a buckle and NOT a cloth one with Velcro. Trust me, without the reference point of a belt notch to alert you to weight gain, you will wrap your Velcro over a bigger and bigger waist as time goes by.
Unconventional Training Tip 5: Learn the Value of Sub-Maximal Workouts
Not every workout is a personal best. There is no bad workout if you learn something and reinforce the habit of training. Look at each workout as a chance to practice your technique, so even a sub-maximal workout is a step forward. Make sure your technique is first of all SAFE and correct before you try to ramp up the intensity. If you keep these things in mind, you can progress for many years and prolong the productivity of your training. This is an exciting time of life and it is so much better with strength and vitality.
Contributor Information:
Rik is an Orange County based trainer who specializes in older warriors. His DVD, Kettlebell Basics, is available from www.budovideos.com. Rik Brown can be contacted at his site, www.LibertyStrengthTraining.com
Subscribe to this comment's feed
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
