Why I Exercise Like a Grandma

Exercising like a millennial is downright exhausting. 

Here’s just a smattering of some “normal” things my age group is supposed to enjoy: Getting sprayed with “color” after a run, running in underwear, running through mud, running a half-marathon, running a marathon, doing a mini-triathlon and of course, doing a triathlon. Let’s not forget about spinning classes, cycling classes, Pilates classes, signing up for recreational team sports leagues and be able to bench press at least 80 pounds on a regular basis. 

Don’t get me started on hot yoga. Don’t even get me started.

When I was in my early twenties, I worked at a newspaper down in Central Florida. I loved watching how my elders exercised. They worked out, but didn’t look “worked out.” Instead, they just seemed like they were having fun. They weren’t silently judging each other. They weren’t wearing $95 sweatpants. If something hurt, they just stopped doing it. 

I decided I wanted to work out like them. But instead of waiting around for 40 years until I get my AARP card, I decided to start now.   

Here’s how I’ve adapted my exercise routine to fit my older soul (and triceps…whatever those are): 

• I walk at least 30 minutes a day. 

• I signed up for tai chi classes. 

• I’m taking water aerobic classes. 

• I bought 2-pound weights and randomly lift them throughout the day. 

• I’m on the lookout for a squash partner. 

Working out is important, no matter what age you are. I’ve just found that I’d rather be older. 

So millennials, go have fun sweating it out in SoulCycle — you can find me playing croquet and drinking vodka tonics with Gertrude this summer.