Why 'Exercise for Over 50s' Is Meaningless
Senior lady working out at a gym
If you've ever searched for "exercise for over 50s" or "best workouts for midlife fitness," you might have been met with a confusing mix of workout programmes. Some seem far too easy, while others look impossibly tough. But what does "over 50s exercise" even mean? The truth is, age alone doesn’t determine what you can or should do.
Why Age Isn’t the Best Measure of Fitness
A 55-year-old who has been active for years will have vastly different needs from someone who has been mostly sedentary. Likewise, a 65-year-old with great mobility might struggle with strength, while another may have poor balance but good coordination.
Exercise should always be tailored to the individual, not just grouped into an age category. That’s why a one-size-fits-all approach to "fitness over 50" is misleading.
Exercise Is About Where You Are Now
I work with midlifers—those in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond—and I can tell you that fitness is highly personal. The right approach depends on where you’re starting from and what your body needs.
If you haven’t exercised for years, you may feel stiff, weak, and uncoordinated.
If you have good mobility but lack control, movement might feel unstable.
If you struggle with balance and coordination, it can affect confidence in daily activities.
Most people have poor strength, particularly in the legs and core, which are essential for staying active and independent.
Why Customised Workouts Matter
Generic "over 50s" workout plans often assume one of two things: that you need only gentle, low-impact movement, or that you can dive straight into high-intensity training. But the truth is, your fitness plan should be customised to:
Meet you where you are right now.
Improve strength, mobility, and control at the right pace.
Help you move better in daily life, not just in the gym.
The Best Exercises for Midlife and Beyond
So, what should you be doing? The best workouts focus on:
Strength training to prevent muscle loss and improve joint support.
Mobility exercises to keep your body moving freely.
Balance and coordination drills to reduce the risk of falls and build confidence.
Some people in their 60s are running marathons, while others just want to get up from the floor without struggling. Both are valid goals, and both require a tailored approach.
The Takeaway: It’s Not About Your Age—It’s About You
The next time you see "Exercise for Over 50s," remember: your body, movement history, and goals matter far more than your birth year. The right workout isn’t about your age—it’s about what you need to move and feel better.
If you're looking for guidance on building strength, improving mobility, or just getting started with exercise, I can help. Let’s create a plan that works for you—no generic routines, just smart, personalised movement that fits your life.
Sabrina is a movement specialist based in Worcester Park, UK, helping people overcome pain, move better, and enjoy active, fulfilling lives. With expertise in sports and remedial massage, personal training, and the Emmett Technique, she works with clients to relieve pain, improve mobility, and build strength. Treatments and training sessions take place in her private home treatment and training room. If you would like to discuss your needs, book a Discovery Call.