For many people, reaching their 60s changes the way they think about fitness.
It becomes less about how you look and much more about how you want to live.
At Athletic EDG Fitness in Sherwood Park, owner and trainer Carl Sobstad believes strength training can play an important role in helping older adults maintain their mobility, confidence and independence.
“My biggest goal is helping people stay independent for as long as possible,” says Carl. “Seniors are often given maintenance-based exercise, but they’re capable of much more with the right support.”
As we age, maintaining muscle, strength, balance and coordination becomes increasingly important. Everyday activities – from climbing stairs and carrying groceries to recovering from a stumble – depend upon them.
And Carl stresses one important point: it is never too late to start.
For someone new to resistance training, progress can often be surprisingly noticeable. Rather than throwing people into a one-size-fits-all routine, Carl begins with a consultation and assessment, looking at injury history, current ability and, most importantly, why that person has walked through the door.
A typical introductory program runs eight to ten weeks, with just two sessions per week providing an achievable starting point. Training may combine strength, muscle development and cardiovascular conditioning, with additional attention given to balance or coordination where needed.
But there is another ingredient at Athletic EDG that may be just as important: community.
Carl has watched clients who originally trained individually begin booking sessions together, building friendships that now extend beyond the gym.
That camaraderie is mixed with Carl’s distinctly no-nonsense Scandinavian approach. His clients say he pushes them beyond what they would achieve alone—but with plenty of humour and encouragement along the way.
Growing up in Norway, Carl didn’t have the modern gym culture we know today. After university, working with different ages and abilities helped shape his belief that older adults shouldn’t be underestimated.
“You can still work hard. You can still build strength. You can still improve,” he says.
So, whether you come individually or bring a friend, Carl’s advice is simple:
Come and try it. You might improve your strength, protect your independence—and find your tribe along the way.
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