I laughed when you said you’re in good shape for a college professor. I’m in good shape for a 75 year old retired commercial real estate broker. Like you, I have been exercising for many years. Eight years ago for the first time in my life, I joined a gym. It’s small, never more than six or eight of us, like having a private trainer for $165 month. Coach Tye is my son’s age. I go faithfully three times a week. Coach changes up the work out every month, which is a big benefit for me because I never have to think. I just show up and do what I’m told. We do cardio, weightlifting, balance, a little yoga and pilates here and there. It’s always a great workout. When I don’t feel like going I tell myself it’s only for an hour and I can put up with anything for an hour. I’m 5 feet tall and weigh 115. I can deadlift 155, pretty good for a little old lady. I LOVE weight lifting! Who knew! Most fun of all for a girl, I have never outgrown any of the pretty clothes I have.
My husband and I have traveled extensively over the last six months. That meant I missed out on many of my workouts. I could really tell the difference. I didn’t have the stamina and the vigor I am accustomed to. Now that we are back home, I am back on track. Everybody who knows me remarks and my high energy level. That is all, absolutely ALL due to the fact that I have stayed active working out.
Also, since I am bolted down here in Southern California, I need to take advantage of what we have here. My supplement, therefore, is massive amounts of red wine. They make great stuff here, and have not taxed it out of existence yet, probably because a lot of Democrats own wineries. 🍷
You say that "Decades of experience has taught me that the best ergonomics isn’t optimized ergonomics, but constantly changing ergonomics." And I want to agree with that, HARD! As some say, "The best position is your next position. Whether you’re on the floor, at your desk or even standing – always MOVE. We were not created to be sedentary beings. Don’t let your body forget that! " Apologies that I can't give proper credit to: NEXT position!
At 76 yo, I have a few more miles on the chassis than you, but have a very similar exercise routine. Lifting and yoga are both acquired tastes, in that you have to actually do them for a while, say 3 months or so, in order to begin to appreciate them as foundational. Both help you to learn your body and pay attention to it's signals. Creatine has long been a go-to supplement for many of us who like a more intense workout. It also may have additional cognitive benefits for seniors. Periodic assessments of bodyfat, appendicular muscle mass, as well as hip/shoulder mobility and stability are increasingly important with age.
I take the same supplements (except the citrulline) and I think they do help. Another good one for oldsters, especially if you have joint pain or aches, is turmeric; good to quell inflammation.
Not sure if I should just like every single comment because they’re all great. Love the professor’s original remarks as well.
I’ve always appreciated your “pretty good for a law professor” attitude. Few of us are athletes but we can all be doing pretty good for where we are. I started using a personal trainer 9 years ago (at age 45) and it made a world of difference. I may not be in great shape for a young person or even for a healthy 54 year old but I’m in amazing shape for a disabled guy (long standing multiple sclerosis in my case). I think it’s a healthy perspective for anyone to have.
My experience is pretty much the same as yours except for the yoga. I started lifting in 2015 and went from a pudgy mess who nearly passed out from walking up a flight of stairs to doing consistent 350 pound deadlifts. Not too bad for 64! For cardio, I do a 30 minute session on a weighted sled (usually body weight) three times a week, plus walks with my wife (who does weight training and boxing!) I agree with doing just good enough; while I'd love to hit 400 on my deadlift, my hips are too wonky and the injuries (damned psoas muscles) take too long to recover from.
My history with lifting is intertwined with an extensive background in martial arts and starts a little earlier than yours but I'm intrigued by the similarities in outcome.
I laughed when you said you’re in good shape for a college professor. I’m in good shape for a 75 year old retired commercial real estate broker. Like you, I have been exercising for many years. Eight years ago for the first time in my life, I joined a gym. It’s small, never more than six or eight of us, like having a private trainer for $165 month. Coach Tye is my son’s age. I go faithfully three times a week. Coach changes up the work out every month, which is a big benefit for me because I never have to think. I just show up and do what I’m told. We do cardio, weightlifting, balance, a little yoga and pilates here and there. It’s always a great workout. When I don’t feel like going I tell myself it’s only for an hour and I can put up with anything for an hour. I’m 5 feet tall and weigh 115. I can deadlift 155, pretty good for a little old lady. I LOVE weight lifting! Who knew! Most fun of all for a girl, I have never outgrown any of the pretty clothes I have.
My husband and I have traveled extensively over the last six months. That meant I missed out on many of my workouts. I could really tell the difference. I didn’t have the stamina and the vigor I am accustomed to. Now that we are back home, I am back on track. Everybody who knows me remarks and my high energy level. That is all, absolutely ALL due to the fact that I have stayed active working out.
Also, since I am bolted down here in Southern California, I need to take advantage of what we have here. My supplement, therefore, is massive amounts of red wine. They make great stuff here, and have not taxed it out of existence yet, probably because a lot of Democrats own wineries. 🍷
If you ever find yourself in L.A., I know a gym you'd love, and I can get you in :)
You say that "Decades of experience has taught me that the best ergonomics isn’t optimized ergonomics, but constantly changing ergonomics." And I want to agree with that, HARD! As some say, "The best position is your next position. Whether you’re on the floor, at your desk or even standing – always MOVE. We were not created to be sedentary beings. Don’t let your body forget that! " Apologies that I can't give proper credit to: NEXT position!
At 76 yo, I have a few more miles on the chassis than you, but have a very similar exercise routine. Lifting and yoga are both acquired tastes, in that you have to actually do them for a while, say 3 months or so, in order to begin to appreciate them as foundational. Both help you to learn your body and pay attention to it's signals. Creatine has long been a go-to supplement for many of us who like a more intense workout. It also may have additional cognitive benefits for seniors. Periodic assessments of bodyfat, appendicular muscle mass, as well as hip/shoulder mobility and stability are increasingly important with age.
Does the brand COQ10 matter? Perhaps post a link on the blog and I will buy it through the link.
I'd like a recommendation on this too. I've been meaning to add COQ10 to my regimen for a while and your advice sealed the deal.
I take the same supplements (except the citrulline) and I think they do help. Another good one for oldsters, especially if you have joint pain or aches, is turmeric; good to quell inflammation.
I also take the same supplements, and did take tumeric once upon a time. Stopped when I didn't seem much effect. Maybe I'll take another shot at it.
Not sure if I should just like every single comment because they’re all great. Love the professor’s original remarks as well.
I’ve always appreciated your “pretty good for a law professor” attitude. Few of us are athletes but we can all be doing pretty good for where we are. I started using a personal trainer 9 years ago (at age 45) and it made a world of difference. I may not be in great shape for a young person or even for a healthy 54 year old but I’m in amazing shape for a disabled guy (long standing multiple sclerosis in my case). I think it’s a healthy perspective for anyone to have.
Thanks again for all the blogging.
My experience is pretty much the same as yours except for the yoga. I started lifting in 2015 and went from a pudgy mess who nearly passed out from walking up a flight of stairs to doing consistent 350 pound deadlifts. Not too bad for 64! For cardio, I do a 30 minute session on a weighted sled (usually body weight) three times a week, plus walks with my wife (who does weight training and boxing!) I agree with doing just good enough; while I'd love to hit 400 on my deadlift, my hips are too wonky and the injuries (damned psoas muscles) take too long to recover from.
My history with lifting is intertwined with an extensive background in martial arts and starts a little earlier than yours but I'm intrigued by the similarities in outcome.
they say boron is good for the joints....we don't get enough boron in our diets