Lisa Lifts Weights?

As women age we need to be concerned about strength training. I’ve been hearing this for a while. Two thoughts came to mind: Oh great another thing to add to the list of aging and keeping my body healthy. My other thought was: What if this is one of those things I really can’t ignore. I secretly worried.

I had friends already doing something about this next part of being a healthy woman. I love them all and was encouraged to see them taking care of themselves. I thought about things they were doing. Marianne talked about her personal trainer and going to the gym to lift weights. The trainer also took her out for a weekly run. Ouch count me out. I’m not a runner and I can’t imagine going to the gym.

Then there was my friend Beth. She started rock climbing. Wow. That sounded brave even if it was in a gym not on the face of Half Dome in Yosemite. She kept at it and was gaining strength and confidence. Lovely, but not for me.

Finally there was my buddy Linda. She had figured out the reason she didn’t like to exercise was sweating. She hated to sweat. Water Aerobics was the answer for her. Hmmm, it’s a thought. But as much as she didn’t want to sweat I didn’t want to get wet. What’s an old lady to do?

I wasn’t finding answers from my friends. Okay I wasn’t asking the question much either. I didn’t want to add a new “must do” to my to-do list. And then I got a nudge from Dana, a trusted friend. She mentioned she was weight training with Kimberly. Really? Yes really, and it’s fun.

Having a path forward from a person I love made the next step easier. I contacted Kimberly and had a delightful text exchange. I told the truth. I’ve never done this. I’m not really sure it’s for me. I don’t have weights. I have more guilt than enthusiasm. Perfect. You are the best client there is. I am happy to support you getting stronger.

So I did it. I signed up for a whole semester of weights class, four days a week, five classes. On zoom in the privacy of my own home, with water bottles as my first weights I stepped out of my comfort zone and it’s a new good habit.

Surprise. I could do it. I guess the yoga and walking had helped a little. Seriously I was surprised that I enjoyed class. It makes me feel like a badass to do reps and sets. I can feel changes in my body. I am getting stronger. If you are interested in giving this a try send me an email and I’ll connect you to Kimberly and her Body School. It may surprise you too.