Take a look around your club. Chances are, you’ll see lots of silver-haired clients working out. According to the International Council on Active Aging, 25% of health club members are age 55 or older. Here are some recommendations to help keep this population safe at your club:
• Learn the signs of heart attack and stroke: Even seemingly healthy club members can have a heart attack or stroke. Train your instructors to recognize the warning signs and take proper action.
• Become certified to perform CPR: If your instructors are not CPR-certified, it’s a good idea to make sure they get the proper training. Their intervention can save lives.
• Adapt your exercise programs: Many older adults have conditions that make it difficult for them to follow standard exercise programs. Club members with artificial knees or hips are unable to perform certain exercises, as are members with heart conditions, respiratory disorders, arthritis, and osteoporosis. Consider developing exercise programs that can be done while seated, using bands, free weights, Pilates balls, or a plain bar. Avoid exercises that can cause joint pain, breathing irregularities, or excessively high heart rates.
• Understand diabetes: According to the American Diabetes Association, over 20% of Americans age 60 or older have diabetes. Diabetics can experience hypoglycemia (a severe drop in blood sugar) when they exercise, so it’s important to recognize the signs of this condition. Symptoms include: cold, clammy skin; paleness; inability to concentrate; shaking and loss of coordination; headache, blurred vision; and fainting.
• Prevent trip-and-fall accidents: Because trip-and-fall accidents can be potentially fatal to the elderly, keep exercise areas free of weights, towels, gym bags, and other tripping hazards. Encourage staff to look for and remove tripping hazards.
• Add balance: Offer programs that stress balance, coordination, and flexibility. An added benefit is that as clients get stronger and enhance their balance, they are less likely to fall.
• Call 911 if there’s an emergency: If you suspect a club member is seriously injured, always call 911.
By following these recommendations, you can help to keep your older club members safe and healthy.
Michael Swain is Senior Loss Control Specialist for Markel Insurance Company in Richmond, Virginia. Markel specializes in insurance for personal trainers and health clubs. He can be contacted at 800.943.3547, or visit www.markelfitness.com.
