Certificated Personal Trainers Specializing in Senior Fitness

My View:

I used a personal trainer at the start of my gym journey. I want to highlight the need to find senior fitness; we are not 30. Our bodies have limits and longer recovery time. So these are things to think about before you step into a gym: Top Certifications for Personal Trainers Specializing in Senior Fitness.

I have exercised five to six days a week at my gym for the past eight years. If you are new to a gym or returning after years of not working out, I suggest finding a certified trainer to set up a program based on your physical goals and requirements. Incorrect form when lifting weights or even not stretching your pre- and post-workouts can easily injure you.

My Injury:

I did injure myself early on in my gym in my second year of workouts. I pushed too hard and developed a lower groan hernia. The hernia did not hurt. But I noticed one day it was just like a bubble of air under my right side by where my appendix would be. The new hernia was in the same spot as my infant hernia, which was corrected by surgery. I scheduled a visit to my primary doctor, who referred me to a surgeon.

The surgeon confirmed the hernia. After my surgery, I was not allowed to lift anything for 30 days. The first few days of moving were painful since your body weight depends on that area to hold you up. But after a week, I was fine. For more on better health at the gym, read my post about gym gloves and what I use to keep healthy while using a gym.

My lesson learned is not to push yourself, not to keep increasing the weights you’re using, or to over-exercise. Our bodies at this age need to be listened to as much as I like the feeling of working out. I take time off when I have a stiff or extra muscle ache after a previous gym workout. It is about body maintenance, muscle tone, and body activity. I am not trying to look like Arnold Schwarzenegger in his younger movie days.

Top Certifications for Personal Trainers Specializing in Senior Fitness

When interviewing personal trainers, ask if they have any of these certifications:

1. Senior Fitness Specialist (SFS) by NASM: The National Academy of Sports Medicine offers a Senior Fitness Specialist certification that provides in-depth knowledge and practical skills for effectively training seniors.
2. Certified Senior Fitness Specialist (CSFS) by ISSA: The International Sports Sciences Association offers a certification focused on training older adults, covering this population’s specific needs and fitness strategies.
3. Functional Aging Specialist (FAS) by FAI: The Functional Aging Institute offers a certification emphasizing functional training methods to improve the quality of life for older adults.
4. ACE Senior Fitness Specialist by ACE: The American Council on Exercise provides a Senior Fitness Specialist program designed to equip trainers with the knowledge to work safely and effectively with senior clients.
5. Certified Medical Exercise Specialist (CMES) by ACE: This certification focuses on developing exercise programs for individuals with chronic conditions or those recovering from various health issues, which is particularly relevant for older adults.
6. NESTA Senior Fitness Trainer Certification: The National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association offers a certification focusing on senior clients’ unique fitness needs and considerations.
7. ASFA Senior Fitness Certification: The American Sports and Fitness Association certifies trainers who specialize in senior fitness, focusing on safe and effective exercise programming for older adults.
8. SilverSneakers Instructor Certification: This certification, offered through Tivity Health, focuses on group exercise programs specifically designed for older adults.

Here is a table listing eight certifications for personal trainers specializing in coaching seniors or individuals aged 65 and older, along with their respective web URLs:

The above information is not medical or health advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any physical activity. Also, please research and verify all trainers’ backgrounds and certifications. The certificates listed are not sponsored or paying me a fee. The list of possible certification trainers may or may not be useful when you are looking for a trainer. Interview many and ask if they know CPR and emergency first aid. Knowing these two things can be a lifesaver if you have an unknown medical condition and have an event while working out with your trainer. Also, ask your gym staff if they have an emergency CPR/Defibrillator unit. My gym has one. They can monitor the heart and even shock it back into rhythm if needed.

Take Away:

The key is to inform your trainer of any known medical issues, physical issues or limits, and prescriptions you are currently taking. Also, if you are uncomfortable with any exercise or it causes aches or pains, Ask your trainer to offer alternative options. Do not try to ruff- it out, thinking you will get through it. This is when injuries can happen. Enjoy your workout and be safe and healthy at all times.