Kia ora! We’re Ben and Kate Walden, the dedicated owners of SoulSprite Fitness Studios, in Devonport village. With over 25 years of experience in the fitness industry, our mission is to empower individuals in their 40s, 50s and beyond to embrace strength training as a pathway to vitality.
Ageing can often lead to the belief that our best days are behind us, but that’s simply not true – you can still feel sexy, powerful, and full of life! While modern medicine plays a crucial role in extending our lifespan and managing health conditions, we believe in being proactive with strength training, as it uniquely addresses some of the most pressing issues associated with ageing. It goes beyond looking good in your clothes and being toned (although that’s a nice bonus); by training effectively, you can regenerate your cells and slow the ageing process. A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine shows that individuals who engage in regular strength training enjoy a 23% lower risk of early mortality. Imagine that – resistance training could genuinely help you live longer!
Here’s what strength training uniquely provides:
Functional strength: Strength training builds muscle and enhances functional strength, which translates directly into everyday activities. Whether it's lifting groceries, playing with grandchildren or climbing stairs, the strength you gain empowers you to perform daily tasks with ease and confidence. This functional strength is something no medication can replicate.
Bone health: One of the most significant benefits of strength training is its positive impact on bone health. As we enter our 50s, the risk of osteoporosis increases, particularly for women. Engaging in resistance training can increase bone mineral density by up to 3% per year for perimenopausal women, significantly reducing the risk of fractures and falls. This is vital for maintaining independence as we age.
Boosted metabolism: Strength training also revs up your resting metabolic rate (RMR) by up to 15%. This means you’ll burn more calories even while lounging on the couch – who doesn’t love that? Improved muscle mass simplifies weight management. Recent studies reveal that resistance training is more effective than cardio for weight control. While cardio is great for heart health and burns calories too, combining both creates an unbeatable fitness strategy!
Mental health benefits: The psychological benefits of strength training are profound. Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers, which can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Strength training enhances cognitive function and improves self-esteem, positively influencing aspects of your life that medications alone may not address as comprehensively. With every lift and every rep, you’re not just building muscle; you’re crafting a stronger, more resilient version of yourself.
Resilience and empowerment: Lifting weights or your own body weight teaches you about your body and its capabilities, fostering a deep sense of empowerment and resilience. This emotional strength translates into other areas of life, helping you tackle challenges with a more robust mindset. While medications may alleviate stress or anxiety, they do not provide the same profound sense of personal achievement that comes from setting and reaching fitness goals.
Community and support: Engaging in strength training often involves joining classes or small groups, fostering a sense of community and support. This social interaction can significantly enhance mental health and motivation, creating a network of encouragement that no medication can replicate.
At SoulSprite, our greatest asset is our friendly instructors who genuinely care about your journey. We offer a hybrid of over 130 sessions per week, including functional strength, cardio and flexibility, because all aspects of fitness are beneficial! Our small group training format makes workouts enjoyable and less intimidating. With classes capped at ten participants, you receive personalised attention and technical guidance, allowing you to progress safely and overcome common pain barriers like joint discomfort and mobility issues.
Remember, you’re never too old to build muscle! Embrace the opportunity to redefine what ageing means for you. By incorporating a balanced routine of cardiovascular exercise, strength training and flexibility, you are not just adding years to your life; you are enriching those years with vitality, joy and a profound sense of empowerment. Your best days are yet to come!
Best, Kate and Ben
Founders, SoulSprite, Devonport
soulsprite.co.nz
