#19: Lessons Learned from StrongerLife Members
At StrongerLife, a gym dedicated to folks over 55, we’ve learned some invaluable lessons from our incredible members. Our journey began in 2019 inside an existing CrossFit gym and has since grown into a standalone facility. We’re proud to say that we’re one of the few programs of this kind, and along the way, we’ve been taught so much by the very people we set out to serve.
It’s Almost Never Too Late
One of the most profound lessons we’ve learned is that it’s almost never too late to start living a healthier, more active life. Many of our members come to us in their 60s or 70s, some having never exercised before. They arrive with multiple health issues that have built up over decades, and yet, with consistent effort, they’ve transformed their lives. We’ve seen people with multiple surgeries, joint replacements, and serious health conditions like cancer and heart disease, come back stronger than ever. It’s one thing to read about the resilience of the human body; it’s another to witness it day in and day out.
Redefining What’s Possible
The extent to which our members defy expectations is astonishing. Take Carolyn Holmes, for example—she started running at 88 years old and competed in the National Senior Games at 89, placing third in a 5K race. Stories like hers push us to rethink what’s possible, especially when it comes to recovery from surgeries like total hip or knee replacements. We’ve seen members run, jump, and kneel despite being told they’d never do those things again. They’re rewriting the narrative on aging and recovery, and in doing so, they’re teaching us that many of the limitations placed on them by traditional healthcare advice are simply not true.
The Power of Community
Another invaluable lesson we’ve learned is the power of community. The social interactions within our gym are just as important as the physical exercise. Many of our members come not just for the workout, but for the sense of belonging and support they find here. This community lifts each other up, encourages one another, and creates an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. It’s a reminder that health and wellness are about more than just physical strength—they’re about connection, too.
Challenging the Healthcare System
Working outside the traditional healthcare system has opened our eyes to the potential harm it can cause. We’ve seen people come to us believing they’re weak or fragile because of a diagnosis like osteoporosis. These beliefs often stem from interactions with healthcare providers who may not fully explain what these conditions mean or what’s possible in terms of treatment and recovery. At StrongerLife, we help our members see that they’re not brittle or broken—they’re capable of much more than they’ve been led to believe. We show them that with the right training and mindset, they can prove those limiting beliefs wrong.
Living Role Models for Aging
Finally, we’ve been fortunate to spend our days with living role models for aging. Our members are intelligent, strong, and adventurous—they’re the kind of people we aspire to be like in our own later years. Whether they’re kayaking in the ocean, traveling to new countries, or just trying new things, they’re rewriting the narrative of what it means to be over 55. Their courage and zest for life inspire us every day and reinforce the importance of staying active and engaged as we age.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the lessons we’ve learned over the past five years, we’re reminded that this journey is a two-way street. While we set out to create a fitness community for people over 55, our members have taught us just as much, if not more. Their stories of resilience, strength, and community have shaped our approach to fitness and aging, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to continue learning from them every day.
If you’re over 55 and looking for a supportive community to help you stay active and healthy, we invite you to join us at StrongerLife. Whether you’re new to exercise or a seasoned athlete, we’re here to help you reach your goals and prove that it’s never too late to start living a stronger, healthier life.