Strength Training At 53

Today, my 80-year-old mum and I attended our very first strength training session with a personal trainer 💪

Before we even started, our trainer Sharon (IFC Gym, Ipoh) —such a warm and friendly lady—sat down with us to understand our health conditions, daily habits, and diet. I really appreciated this part, because it made the session feel very personalised and thoughtful, rather than just a “one size fits all” workout. She also shared some simple nutrition tips to support our training.

One of the most important things she taught us was proper breathing technique—when to inhale and exhale during each exercise, whether we were using weights or not. It sounds basic, but it actually makes a big difference in how effectively and safely we exercise.

We were then guided step by step on how to use the different weight machines correctly (no more guessing at the gym 😄), followed by a short floor exercise session.

Since Mum has been dealing with sciatica, Sharon also showed us specific exercises to help relieve the pain and loosen tight muscles. It was very reassuring to know that these movements can be done safely and consistently to improve her condition over time.

Overall, it was such a positive and encouraging experience. Mum and I really enjoyed the session, and more importantly, we feel confident and motivated to continue.

Can’t wait for our next class… even if it means a bit more muscle soreness tomorrow 😆

You can watch the full video on my Facebook page — do follow me there for more little updates and moments from our family life ❤️

Stronger Together: Mum and I Start Our Strength Training Journey

Yesterday, Mum and I attended a strength training workshop at IFC Gym—currently the only gym in Ipoh that offers specialised programmes for senior citizens.

We first heard about it through Mum’s 88-year-old friend, who has been training there and has seen noticeable improvements in her mobility. That was encouraging, especially since Mum has been dealing with persistent joint and limb pain every morning. She was advised that strength training could help improve her mobility and potentially ease those aches by strengthening both muscles and bones.

We attended the theory session last month, and this time, it was all about hands-on practice.

The workshop was divided into three parts: lower body strength training, upper body strength training, and bodyweight exercises using free weights and resistance bands. There was also a complimentary antioxidant test, which measured our body’s antioxidant levels—quite an interesting addition to the session.

Having lived in a condo with gym facilities for 17 years, I have to admit I barely used most of the equipment beyond the treadmill, air walker, and rowing machine. It felt a little ironic that we are now paying to properly learn how to use these machines—but honestly, it’s worth it. The personal trainers were incredibly patient, friendly, and attentive, guiding us step by step.

Most participants were senior citizens, and I think I was among the youngest there—which made the experience even more heartwarming.

The antioxidant test results were a pleasant surprise. Mine came back very high (in a good way!), and I suspect my daily matcha, green tea, and “an orange a day” habit might have something to do with it.

By the end of the workshop, Mum and I were so convinced that we signed up for a personal training package (10 sessions) along with a gym membership. As a bonus, the lifetime membership fee was waived since we signed up on the spot.

We genuinely enjoyed the session and are looking forward to our first personal training class.

The only “downside”—or maybe a good sign—is that my arms were aching throughout the night, similar to that post-vaccine soreness. But I can already feel my muscles waking up… even the little flab under my arms is starting to feel firmer 😄

You can watch the full video on my Facebook page — do follow me there for more little updates and moments from our family life ❤️