Katey Holtgrave, Age 57
How Did You Get Started On Your Fitness Journey?:
I played soccer in High School because we were required to play a sport. I really didn’t like all the running and would always end up with a cramp in my side. When I went to college, I was on the Equestrian team and our coach told us that we needed to get in shape. She required us all to take aerobics classes and start lifting weights using the old Universal machine. Honestly, after I started seeing results, I kept working out and never looked back! After my second son was born, I gained 40 pounds and aerobics wasn’t cutting it. I noticed that runners looked so fit, so little by little I started running and continued weight training. I had a close friend that would constantly ask me to run outside with her and finally, I agreed to go. It wasn’t long before I started running races. Numerous 5 and 10Ks, 14 half Marathons and 2 Marathons.
Fitness Routine:
I weight train 3 times per week. I have a wonderful trainer at Trager Family JCC who I have been working with every Monday for 10 years. He trains me for an hour and I go through his workout on my own Wednesday and Friday. Weight training is so important…especially for women and our bones. Tuesday and Thursday I do pullups with 3 different grips/ 8 reps each set, a few ab exercises, and run/walk anywhere from 4-6 miles. I’ve added the elliptical and stair-climber on my lifting days to mix it up.
Suggestion For Someone Over 45 Who Wants To Get Fit?:
Make your workout your first priority. I schedule my life around the gym. If you can, hire a personal trainer or join group fitness classes to get started. Consistency is key. Put the time and work in. Be disciplined and the motivation will follow!
The Best Thing You Gain From Being Fit?:
Of course, the best thing I gain from being fit is strength, both mental and physical. I’m a big fan of muscles and women can lift pretty heavy. It is such a myth that you will “get bulky!” Don’t ever fall for that! Another nice perk is maintaining my weight and being able to stay the same size for years! I think I’m more fit than I was in my 20’s. This is a challenge at 57, but I keep working at it.
“Nothing is more important than your health, and it’s never too late. Earn your shower! I always remind myself that I GET to workout not that I HAVE to!”
By Katey Holtgrave | Photo by Melissa Donald
P.S. Here is a great, fun way to start getting fit.
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