#18: Reversing Osteoporosis with Linda Toupin
Welcome to the Fitness for 55+ Podcast, brought to you by StrongerLife. I'm Dr. Dustin Jones, a physical therapist, and today I have the pleasure of speaking with a remarkable guest, Linda Toupin. Linda has a story that is both inspiring and educational, especially for those grappling with osteoporosis or osteopenia. Her journey from a challenging diagnosis to a renewed sense of strength is a testament to resilience and the power of a positive mindset.
Linda Toupin's career is a shining example of dedication and leadership. She began her journey with Mary Kay in 1982, starting part-time and building a thriving business that expanded across continents. Her leadership in Mary Kay was not just about sales but about empowering women to reach their full potential. Today, Linda channels her wealth of experience into her podcast, Common Sense Choices, where she shares wisdom gained from decades of building and mentoring.
In our conversation, Linda recounts the moment she received her osteoporosis diagnosis—a moment that felt both sobering and frightening. As someone who had always taken care of herself through exercise and diet, hearing words like "osteopenia" and "osteoporosis" felt like they were meant for someone else, not her. Yet, as she learned more about her condition, she faced it head-on with a mindset shaped by years of personal and professional growth.
The Diagnosis: Facing Osteoporosis Head-On
Linda first encountered osteopenia in her late 50s or early 60s. Initially, she managed it with dietary changes and calcium supplements, but it wasn’t until 2022 that the diagnosis shifted to osteoporosis. This change was a wake-up call, prompting Linda to seek more effective ways to address her bone health. She found StrongerLife in early 2022 and started attending workshops and exercises specifically designed for bone health.
One of the key takeaways from Linda’s story is her proactive approach to managing her condition. Despite having always adhered to a healthy diet and taking supplements, Linda realized that her exercise routine needed a significant overhaul. She discovered that her previous exercise methods, which included walking and yoga, weren’t sufficient for bone health. The specific, targeted exercises at StrongerLife became a crucial part of her routine, making a noticeable difference in her bone density.
The Power of Targeted Exercise
When Linda started at StrongerLife, she learned about the importance of high-intensity resistance training and the rate of loading exercises. Unlike traditional weight-bearing exercises, StrongerLife's approach focuses on lifting heavy weights and performing high-impact movements, which stimulate bone growth. This method was a game-changer for Linda.
Over two years, Linda's bone density scores improved significantly. Her lower back bone density score went from -2.5, indicating osteoporosis, to -1.9, moving back into the osteopenia range. This improvement was largely attributed to the targeted exercises she undertook at StrongerLife, which included lifting weights and performing impact exercises designed to stimulate bone growth.
Mindset Matters: The Role of Personal Responsibility
A key aspect of Linda’s journey is her mindset. She embodies the belief that "I am who I am by the choices I’ve made." Linda’s approach to osteoporosis wasn’t just about managing a diagnosis; it was about taking personal responsibility for her health and making choices that would lead to a stronger, healthier future. Her mantra, "The best 30 years of my life are still ahead of me," reflects her belief in continuous improvement and growth, no matter the age.
Linda’s story also highlights a common challenge: the tendency to avoid facing uncomfortable truths about our health. Many people might shy away from getting a bone density scan or a health check-up out of fear of what they might find. However, Linda’s experience underscores the importance of confronting these issues head-on and taking proactive steps to address them.
Practical Advice for Managing Osteoporosis
For those dealing with osteoporosis or osteopenia, Linda’s experience offers several key lessons:
Exercise Matters: Targeted, high-intensity resistance training and impact exercises can significantly improve bone density. Regular exercise tailored to your needs can make a real difference.
Mindset is Key: Adopting a proactive mindset and taking personal responsibility for your health can lead to better outcomes. Believe in the potential for improvement and stay committed to your health journey.
Continuous Learning: Stay informed about your condition and seek out resources that can help you manage it effectively. Linda’s engagement with StrongerLife and other educational resources played a crucial role in her progress.
Holistic Approach: While diet and supplements are important, combining them with a robust exercise regimen can enhance results. Maintain a balanced approach to managing your health.
Conclusion
Linda Toupin’s journey from osteopenia to osteoporosis and back is a powerful reminder of what is possible with the right mindset and actions. Her story is an inspiration for anyone facing similar challenges and demonstrates that with perseverance and the right support, significant improvements are achievable.
For more insights and inspiration, be sure to check out Linda's podcast, Common Sense Choices, available at lindatoupin.com. And for those looking for a supportive community focused on fitness for 55+, join the Fitness for 55+ Facebook group to connect with others and find additional resources.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of the Fitness for 55+ Podcast. Remember, your best years are ahead of you, and with the right choices, you can continue to thrive and live a strong, fulfilling life.
