Home » The KIPS Podcast » Training Active Agers Online feat. Mary Draper

Over the past few years, individuals in the active aging community have become increasingly comfortable using Zoom. Zoom not only allowed individuals to connect online with friends and family across the globe, but also showed them that purchasing services over Zoom can be effective and professional. In this episode of the KIPS Podcast, guest Mary Draper shares insights into training the active aging population online and how she addresses typical components of a training session, such as assessment and cueing. Mary also shares how she grows her online training business, which might surprise fitness instructors looking to gain clients in the active aging population.

Mary starts the episode by sharing how Zoom allowed her to train clients in different states and how online training has allowed some of her clients to gain access to exercise. What many fitness instructors overlook is that training the active aging population may encounter barriers, such as transportation issues. Using Zoom for workouts can be done in the comfort of a client’s home and can be just as effective. Additionally, Mary shares why she chooses specific colors to wear while teaching online and why it’s important to do so.

One of the best segments of this episode is when Mary shares how she performs assessments and has altered her cueing for online workouts. Being creative and thinking outside the box with these items has helped her be more effective with her communication and gain the information needed to create individualized programs. When Mary cues online, she often points out where the exercise should be felt on her own body and shows the client where to focus. This level of instruction is a modification to her usual teaching style but also a way to impart knowledge onto the clients.

Topics Discussed in This Episode

• How to perform an assessment through Zoom.
• Ways to alter your cueing to help your client.
• Growing your leads for training active agers.

What are Active Agers?

Active agers are individuals, typically in their 50s and beyond, who maintain a vibrant and engaged lifestyle. They prioritize physical health, often participating in regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, to enhance their well-being. Beyond physical activity, active agers focus on mental stimulation through lifelong learning, hobbies, and social interactions. Embracing new technologies and staying connected with family and friends are also common traits. This demographic challenges stereotypes about aging, showcasing that one’s golden years can be filled with adventure, exploration, and personal growth. Ultimately, active agers seek to live life to the fullest and inspire others.

Benefits of Training Active Agers Via Zoom

Training seniors online via Zoom offers numerous benefits that enhance their fitness experience. Firstly, it provides accessibility, allowing seniors to participate from the comfort of their homes, which is especially beneficial for those with mobility issues or health concerns. Additionally, virtual sessions often offer flexible scheduling, accommodating individual needs and preferences. Trainers can tailor exercises specifically for seniors, focusing on balance, strength, and mobility to meet their needs. Lastly, the ability to record sessions empowers seniors to revisit workouts, ensuring they stay engaged and motivated on their fitness journey.

Mary Draper enjoys working with adults over 50. She believes there is so much to learn and experience in this second stage of life! Helping people get stronger and full of energy is my passion. I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer 20 years ago, and following my cancer treatment, I used science-based training principles to restore vitality in my life. Her certifications include Personal Training through NASM, Applied Functional Science from Gray Institute, Functional Aging Specialist from the Functional Aging Institute, Functional Training from ACE, Pain-Free Movement Design, and AEA Aquatic Certification. Life adventures await you!