Strong At Every Age: Chris Scherting

We can't tell you how many times we've heard...well I'm just getting old and I guess I can't do those things anymore. Now, it's no secret that your body handles things differently than a 20 or 30 year old when you hit 40+. BUT, let's never use that as an excuse. You can do so much more than you think, all you have to do is try.

We see a heckuva lot of strong women over 40, over 50 and over 60 at our gym and I've asked them to share their stories. They are so inspiring! And they aren't just strong for their age - they are just simply STRONG!

Next up is Chris!

Chris has been a member for six years!

Your age: 59. Don’t let my pig tails and immaturity in class fool you!

When did you start strength training? What's your previous experience (if any)?

I started strength training with Dragonfly! I grew up doing gymnastics, dancing, and swimming. I kept swimming for fitness in college and as an adult. I tried working out at various gyms on the machines, but I never really figured that out. I was a member at Curves for a few years too. 

A few jobs ago, my employer created a wellness program which included bringing in a HIIT trainer so we could work out at lunch twice a week. I had great results, but I didn't really love the workouts.

What have you found to be the most challenging part of sticking with training?

I love the Dragonfly workouts and community!  I don’t find it challenging at all to stick with it. It’s just part of my routine! The psychology of having to sign up for classes in the app and the use it or lose it approach holds me accountable. The only reason I may “late cancel” is if I am sick or something weird happens and I can’t make my class. 

I guess the challenging thing is getting all my classes in around travel or family events. 

What has surprised you the most about your strength and progress? I am always surprised every time I increase weight on moves like kettlebell swings, squats, bench presses, and deadlifts! Sometimes it’s just getting over the mental side and believing you can do it.

How has your strength and fitness impacted life outside of the gym? I had my bone density test done and I am in great shape! 

Lately, I have been paying attention when I take stairs in big crowds. Like when leaving the Fox Theater or on a cruise recently. I noticed how strong I feel with my “step ups” and my balance. I also watch older people struggle and really have to lean on the handrail.  Sounds simple, but it’s a big deal!

What do you feel like is your strongest quality when it comes to the gym/training?

In my mind, Dragonfly is part of my routine. It’s non-negotiable. I might be tired at the end of the day but I know I will leave the gym in a great mood! I love it! I never late cancel because I don’t feel like going.  

What are some of your proudest moments in the gym? Brag brag brag!

When I started at Dragonfly, I had a lot of knee issues from cheerleading and tumbling on the gym floor. I couldn’t do a squat. So the coaches started me with doing squats with a black band around the rig and around my knees. I graduated from the rig and could do air squats and slowly started adding weights. Now I can do squats with a 30lb kettlebell! That is insane!

I can still do a cartwheel!  I do a few every year in the gym to brag on Facebook!. L-stands help with that too!

What would you say to a friend who wants to start strength training, but is maybe nervous? The community at Dragonfly is awesome! No one judges you. Always ask for a modification if you need to. You are stronger than you think!  

Anything else you would like to add? I really love the community at Dragonfly. The coaches are awesome. Funny, energetic, and super supportive and helpful. All the members are awesome too. Friendly, nice, and welcoming.