Is It Too Late to Start Exercising? A Trainer's Answer

No, it's not too late to start exercising. Whether you've been active since you were a teenager or you're just getting started, a relatively small amount of consistent effort can change how you live, and you don't need as much as you might think to begin (here's how much exercise seniors need).

Someone once asked me, "What's the biggest frustration you have in your business?" It made me pause — because the truth is, I really love what I do. I suspect I experience fewer work-related frustrations than most. But this was an honest question, and I wanted to give an honest answer.

So I said: "It frustrates me that so many people don't realize the incredible impact that a relatively small amount of effort can have on their life and freedom."

What Do People Who Succeed at Exercise Have in Common?

In my experience, it's hope, whatever their starting point. Through in-home personal training, I have the privilege of working with a wide variety of people. Some have been intentionally active since they were teenagers. Others were once active, but lost motivation somewhere along the way. And then there are those who look at me and ask, "Is it too late for me to start?"

These three situations often look very different. Abilities vary widely — and yes, they're often closely tied to the investment someone has made in their health over time. But here's the thing they all have in common: HOPE.

Can What You Do Today Change Your Future?

Yes. Hope is the element that successful clients have in common. This hope comes from being willing to believe that the decisions they make today — right now — can shape the way they live tomorrow.

Yes, there are many things outside our control. But we can't let that distract us from what we can do. So I'll ask you:

• Will you still be able to hike with your grandkids?
• Will you have the energy to volunteer at your church?
• Will you be able to travel to your granddaughter's wedding — and dance with her?

Start small. Stay consistent. Look forward to your future! If you want a place to begin, the 30-second chair stand test shows where your leg strength is today, and these tips can help you start an exercise habit that sticks.