5 Proven Rules to Get Good Results for Your Older Clients

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(The valuable advice in this post comes from athlete and strength coach Dan John, and Robert Linkul, owner of Be Stronger Fitness.)

1. Hit the ground

As you age, being able to get up and down from the floor is important. Help clients practice with Turkish get-ups, push-ups, and planks. 

2. Focus on hip extensors

The gluteus maximus is the body’s largest muscle, and preventing or reversing its atrophy is crucial for seniors. Do glute bridges: both for reps and isometric holds. 

3. Use loads for both strength and hypertrophy

Yes, muscle loss is a concern with age, but so is loss of strength. In fact, strength may fall faster. Improve both with multiple sets of eight to 12 reps. 

4. Restore power

Power declines even faster than strength or muscle mass. Use safer power-training moves like medicine ball throws. 

5. Transfer loads

Loaded carries develop grip strength and core stability. Start the drill with a hip hinge, an important move for older clients.

Quote of the D: “When you treat people like they’re old, they start to act like they think old people should act.” —Robert Linkul

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Jonathan Goodman is the founder of the Personal Trainer Development Center, the largest independent community of fit pros in the world. He’s also the founder of the first-ever certification for online fitness trainers, the Online Trainer Academy. Originally from Toronto, Jon travels travels the world with his wife and young son in the winters.