Age No Barrier: Northampton Gym Success

Image credit: Northampton Chronicle

At 76 years old, Terry Crouch is proving that age is no barrier to achieving fitness goals. Encouraged by his wife, Terry joined Nuffield Health in Northampton and began attending sessions led by Rebecca Adams, the group exercise manager and personal trainer. Rebecca hosts a variety of classes, including three weekly sessions specifically designed for older men.

Rebecca’s classes, held at the gym in Walter Tull Way, include an aqua class on Monday mornings and two wellbeing workouts on Wednesdays and Fridays. These sessions have been praised for their positive impact on mental and physical health, social inclusion, and overall quality of life.

Terry was one of Rebecca’s first recruits for the ‘wellbeing workout’. The class started with simple stretching and band work, gradually progressing to weight training, something Terry had never done before. Rebecca ensures that each session is slightly more challenging, and Terry has made remarkable progress. He is now chest pressing weights that even some participants in more advanced classes struggle with.

Terry recently set a goal to bench press 30 kilograms before his 77th birthday in July, a milestone he achieved within a week. He jokes about having to replace his jackets due to his newfound muscle growth but is genuinely pleased with his progress. Terry credits Rebecca’s dedication and skill for his achievements, emphasising that fitness and muscle development are possible even in later years.

Rebecca and Terry both champion the message that “age is no barrier.” Rebecca highlights that the classes are not just about exercise but also about the social element, fostering a sense of community and support among attendees.

Rebecca’s passion for teaching extends to her aqua classes for older men and wellbeing workouts for people of all ages, genders, and fitness levels. The classes are fun, progressively challenging, and provide a supportive environment for everyone involved.

Terry’s story is a testament to the fact that with determination and the right guidance, anyone can achieve their fitness goals, regardless of age. So, if you’ve been hesitating to start your fitness journey, take a leaf out of Terry’s book and remember, age is no barrier!