If you joined a gym in retirement what do you do and how has it helped you in terms of fitness and weight.

[dolphinsarentcommon]

Ive lost about 3 stones but would like to lose another 7lbs or so. Ive increased my fitness level considerably by walking. Running isn't for me.

I'm thinking about joining for weights and maybe swimming (not a natural swimmer but can do a bit) mainly to improve my shape.

There's no classes at the gym im considering as they've stayed online which is a shame.

Im almost 60 though, and wonder if ive left it a bit late to firm up much.

Would love to hear your experiences.

I chose not to join a gym but instead work out every day at home, using YouTube fitness trainers. There are sooooo many, but these worked for me:

Lucy Wyndham Read has lots of short and easy workouts. I like her because she is gentle and has no music. Her Thighs & Gutes workout is fantastic.

Rebecca Louis is very energetic and talks too much, but her short workouts are very effective, especially Best Abs, Ageless Arms and Bingo Wings. (Turn down the sound as her endless chatter is somewhat irritating - I listen to Radio 4 instead...)

Growingannanas is my current favourite. Anna has loads of HIIT workouts of varying intensity, with and without weights.

Jakes Dupree has lots of whole body workouts - often with a partner who does the 'easy' version.

I'd suggest getting yourself a pair of 3 kg dumbbells and a mat, and see how you get on with these

Thank you @FlowerArranger

I was hoping the gym I had my eye on would give me the 999 reduced rates seeing as I have an nhs pension but they won't, so your information is very useful.. will have a look

My mum (late 60s) swims and does Pilates. She broke her leg last year and recovered way quicker than anyone expected - the consultant was very impressed she could stand up on one leg without holding onto anything! I've resolved to start doing Pilates before I get old and decrepit 😉

I joined one at same age as you (although not retired) and it changed my life. Not in a firming up way but increase in mobility and strength. I went to a local no frills place which offered small group training and went 3 times a week. I was the oldest there and couldn't do everything that the others did but they took my age into consideration. I asked for recommendations for places on my local fb page.

I did a swimming challenge once (from being a pretty poor swimmer) and it’s the best shape I’ve ever been in despite always having been pretty sporty. Weights can be a great way of working on muscle tone, strength and fitness too. If you think you’d enjoy the pool and the weights room, then the gym could be for you. Fully acknowledge home workouts are possible and some people love them, but I’ve never enjoyed them as much as actually going to the gym personally.