How sustainable is a career in the fitness industry for people who are over 50 years old? As we age, our bodies physically change regardless of how healthy and active we are. In addition, the fitness industry has a stigma for staying “young” just like the celebrity industry.

How to maintain a successful career in fitness over time

What can fitness professionals do to maintain a successful career as time goes on? We caught up with fellow experts to get the top tips on how to Reinvent Your Fitness Career After 50.

“Practice what you preach!” advocates Laura Leiseca, RDN, LDN, Wellness Dietitian and Fitness Expert. “I eat well 80% of the time & exercise 7 days per week. No smoking. Occasional alcohol. As I have gotten older, I have incorporated more yoga, stretching, and flexibility training into my weekly workouts. This is a must for the aging body.”

Just like we tell our clients to find balance in their food and lifestyle, we have to do it, too. Understanding one’s body is important to know how hard to train and what other exercises and activities to do to prevent injury. Leading by example is a huge asset to one’s fitness practice and enhances one’s expertise regardless of age.

Kristen Brogan, Registered Dietitian, Superfood Chef, Cookbook Author, Yoga Instructor, Certified Personal Trainer, and Keynote Speaker, also reinforces modifying activity to accommodate age. “There’s two things we lose as we age, from a fitness standpoint, and that is flexibility and balance. It’s important to choose movement practices that focus on flexibility and balance such as yoga or other well-rounded exercises.” Making sure one continues to train accordingly can be key to maintaining one’s fitness level and longevity in the fitness industry.

How to use age to your advantage in your fitness career

Leiseca explains, “My habits have physically kept me looking & feeling younger than my age. Clients see this and always want to know what I do to have energy & look young.” Being a role model can inspire others to emulate what you do.

“We can’t change the fact of aging. But we can change the face of aging.” - Gwen Hyatt, a 40-year veteran of the fitness industry and president of DSW Fitness.

Takeaways

Remember, age is an asset. Age can also insinuate more knowledge and expertise (especially if someone has been in the industry for a very long time).

People who are older and still active can motivate others to be like them.

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About the author

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist specializing in Weight Management and Sports Nutrition for youth and adults. She writes articles for multiple publications, provides customized nutrition coaching, and is a brand spokesperson. She is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta.and MIJA. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.