Age Is Not The Limit: Moving For Life

Wendy Welpton founder of Reclaim Movement and host of the Make Movement Matter podcast

In today's world, movement and exercise often come with the pressure to perform, whether it's through high-intensity workouts or striving for constant improvement. However, many of us are looking to redefine movement, especially as we age, emphasizing enjoyment, connection, and empowerment over performance and perfection. This conversation between Erin from the Agents of Movement Podcast and Wendy from the Reclaim Movement podcast highlights how we can reshape our views on aging and physical activity.

The Problem with Traditional Exercise Mindsets

Wendy explains that the traditional exercise narrative can be quite negative, filled with “shoulds” and “have tos.” This mindset often disconnects us from the joy of movement, making it feel like a chore rather than something natural and fun. As we age, this perception can become even more limiting. We're bombarded with messages that aging equates to decline—despite age, not being a barrier to activities like jumping or cycling.

Shared Experiences and Empowering Narratives

Erin and Wendy bridge their different yet complementary approaches by co-hosting an episode of their podcasts. Wendy shares her journey from facing chronic pain after a running injury to reclaiming her movement through natural, functional exercises. This revelation led her to help others through her Reclaim Movement Membership and upcoming book. Erin, on the other hand, brought her experience from the fitness industry and working with older adults. Her passion lies in improving quality of life rather than aesthetics, focusing on confidence and the ability to participate creatively and freely in various activities like parkour-based fall resiliency programs for seniors.

Breaking Barriers and Encouraging Play

Both hosts agree that societal narratives about aging can limit individuals’ perceived capabilities. They emphasize the importance of shifting these narratives by fostering environments that encourage play and exploration for people of all ages. This can be as simple as walking through an elaborate maze-like tape course in a senior living community or playing games that challenge balance and coordination. Wendy points out how just a small shift in our daily routines, like removing individual waste bins to encourage walking, can enhance overall movement and well-being. It illustrates the importance of ongoing, natural movement rather than solely focusing on scheduled exercise.

The Power of Representation and Social Media

Erin highlights how underrepresentation in mainstream media of older individuals engaged in various activities further perpetuates age-related stereotypes. Social media, however, provides a platform for older adults to display vibrant, active lifestyles, challenging entrenched views.

Creating Supportive and Engaging Communities

For those in assisted living or with certain physical limitations, the challenge is even greater. Erin and Wendy discuss practical ways to create supportive environments that encourage movement, using play as a beneficial tool for social interaction and engagement. The goal is not about conforming to fitness stereotypes but rather about integrating enjoyable, everyday movement into our lives.

Changing the Narrative

Ultimately, the conversation calls for a shift in how we collectively view aging and movement. This shift involves recognizing the power of words we use to describe our capabilities and those of others. It’s about celebrating the nuances of everyday activities and integrating a sense of play and joy into our lives, regardless of age. Wendy concludes by underscoring the importance of this paradigm shift for everyone, reinforcing that agency over our physical capabilities and curiosity are crucial as we age. It's about changing the expectations and broadening the perspective of what it means to keep moving through life.