Personal trainer stresses total body fitness
The old adage, “Use it or lose it,” is absolutely true when it comes to muscle.
“Strength training is one of the best ways to keep muscles strong,” says Joyce Preston, certified personal trainer at Post Falls World Gym.
“Muscle loss results mainly from inactivity. Growing older doesn’t have to equate to loss of strength, energy and vigor,” says Preston, who is in her 50s.
A 22-year veteran Delta Airline manager and flight attendant, Preston has traveled all over the world, but decided she didn’t want to be constantly gone from the most beautiful place in the world – North Idaho.
Preston retired from the airlines, and then decided to pursue a four-month course of study that would certify her as a personal trainer by the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
Preston, who has completed half-marathons and sprint triathlons over the years, attributes her introduction to physical fitness to her husband, John, a retired policeman.
“John got me interested in physical fitness 25 years ago,” says Preston.
Once believed to be only for body builders, Preston says older Americans’ attitudes about gym attendance are changing.
“Strength training is not just about building muscle mass – it is more about toning, conditioning, feeling good and staying healthy for this age group,” says Preston.
In their quest for optimal physical fitness, older Americans are finding success working with personal trainers like Preston.
According to 18th annual SUPERSTUDY of Sports Participation conducted by American Sports Data Inc., 25 percent of the nation’s 41.3 million health club members are now over 55. This age group also constitutes 25 percent of the 6.1 million Americans who paid for the services of a personal trainer in 2004.
Although Preston works with clients of all ages, she understands and has empathy with members 50 and over. Preston stresses proper form and technique, incorporates group fitness classes into workout schedules, emphasizes proper nutrition and challenges clients to set goals.
Preston stresses benefits and tells clients that strength training can reduce the signs and symptoms of many chronic conditions. It reduces pain and stiffness from arthritis and increases strength and flexibility; it improves glycemic control; and builds bone density.
Strength training also reduces cardiovascular risk by improving lipid profile and overall fitness; it helps to increase metabolism which helps burn calories and helps with weight control; and it strengthens back and abdominal muscles which reduces stress on the spine.
Consistent strength training helps to build strength, improves balance, coordination and mobility, reduces risk of falling and helps to maintain independence in performing daily life activities, according to Preston.
Strength training combined with regular cardio exercise can have a positive effect on a person’s mental and emotional health as well.
“People often sleep better, longer and awaken less often,” Preston says.
It is not unusual to see Joyce Preston giving celebratory high-fives to her clients at the gym for a job well done. She loves what she does and it shows.
“This job is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done,” says Preston.