The 5 WORST Exercises for Ages 50+ (AVOID!)
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- čas přidán 26. 05. 2024
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In this episode, Farnham's leading over-50's physiotherapist, Will Harlow, reveals 5 of the worst exercises for people over 50 that have the potential to cause pain and injury!
If you're suffering from nagging knee pain that hurts in the morning and stops you from walking as far as you'd like, you can take our free knee pain guide - which will give you 5 expert tips to put a stop to knee pain at home - by visiting here: ht-physio.co.uk/knee-pain-gui...
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If you're over-50 with a painful problem in the Farnham, Surrey area, you can learn more about how Will Harlow and HT Physio can help you overcome a painful problem here: ht-physio.co.uk/
*Any information in this video should not be used as a substitute for individual medical advice. Please seek advice from your local healthcare professional before taking action on the information in this video.* Full policy here: ht-physio.co.uk/injury-discla...
Hello everyone! I just produced a follow-up video to this one detailing 5 alternatives to the exercises I recommended to avoid. You can find it here: czcams.com/video/o-EVXBGjav0/video.html Enjoy!
oh great! thank you! I am 58 and I learned I do 2 of the ones you mentioned! (upright rows with a weighted bar and also neck rolls. I liked how you gave tips on alternate neck stretches. I plan to get your book - Thriving beyond 50 on Amazon!
Thanks for this!
He says exercises over 50. Let me help you with the math. 60,70, and 80 are over 50.
TY for the lesson. Greatly appreciated.😊
Invaluable info, many thanks 🙏🏻
1. Upright Row 0:49
2. Back Extension 2:28
3. Crunches 3:57
4. Behind The Neck Press 5:17
5. Neck Rolls 7:46
Thank you 💯💯💯💯🙌
Went through all these exercises, age 62+, not a single issue, noise, glad I did it, now my neck bones are all lubricated and rolling smoothly.
Thank you - the pre-waffle gets annoying.
✌🏽
Thank you!! 😂
Howdy! I am a Former US Marine Corps Fitness and Nutrition Instructor and am an over 50 athlete as well, and I agree with every one of your points. Indeed, for the most part, I wouldn't recommend those exercises for anyone, simply because there are alternatives that are more efficient and safe.
In 44 years of training … I have lived through “never let your toes go past your knees,” “never round your back when lifting,” and “never duck walk.” All of which actually set me back because these are things I did as a kid and what hurt me was NOT exercising with PROPER load in ALL ranges. The body doesn’t have things it’s not supposed to do … just has load limitations. The total mobility, ALL movement is valid under proper load has served me much better than vilifying certain exercises. I have no shoulder, back, knee or other pain and can run a 400m in 1:15, lift in the “intermediate” range of a 25 year old and perform the forward bend, bridge and pancake as my “big 3” stretches. I do all (and have been doing) but crunches of the exercises you mentioned. But I don’t do them more than a couple times a month because I have very high variety in my program which I have found to build musculo -skeletal adaptability as well as cardiovascular. In short, do EVERYTHING, but do it VERY gradually and very strategically. If the body moves in a way, it’s meant to do it.
Amen to this comment.
I find thr seated crunch machine with three way option, very good and causes no back issues for me. Lying down would not be a comfortable way to do this.
Exactly.
In the words of Trump. "Wrong!"
East superman
When I was in my 30s I went to the gym for awhile and worked out with two other guys. The behind the neck press was one of the exercises we did. I ended up having both rotator cuffs repaired. The surgeon told me this was what tore my rotators.
williambryan back in the 90s everyone was doing this- my neck and shoulders suffered- thankfully you never see it now.
Personally I think gyms are quite dangerous. I did the very same thing as you years ago, and it took 10 years for my shoulder to heal and for the pain to go away. Now what I do is get into the countryside hiking, climbing over stiles, clambering up moderate rocky slopes etc - always within my limits of course. I am 75 and have never felt fitter!
Had similar problems for the same reason.
Must have a stretch routine ❗️ conditioning muscle, tendon, and ligament groups first will enable to begin putting weight and / or resistance to that group. Common sense must be the constant❗️❗️ If an exercise seems to "tug" or "hurt", back off,,,research and learn if your body is a candidate for that or those particular exercise.
Then, go slow.....
@@luisfelix5291 The surgeon told me, when you do a military press with the bar behind your head, the tendons are working against themselves to lift and will tear.
Hi Will - this is very helpful. I’m 74 and regularly do 4 of these exercises! You say, “there are better shoulder exercises, there are better core exercises” - the obvious ask is, please put up videos showing us the alternatives. Thanks 😊
I am 61, I do three variations of back extensions on a special bench which I believe makes them easier. Anyhow I like them -- here's the video czcams.com/users/shortslP1U_Vn3wbI?si=ilSvUdfpACp8r5OC
Hi there! I have a few videos on my channel that show my recommended exercises - the following shows some of my recommended core exercises czcams.com/video/MLajLytPZEc/video.html
Thanks. I had the same “obvious” question!👍🏼
Ask yourself why you are trying to strengthen your body to do unnatural motions. That's my key to all exercise - if it doesn't come easily and smoothly without resistance I won't add resistance.
Just what I was going to say
I’m over 70 and have been lifting since 1974. I do all of those inadvisabe exercises except the behind the head shoulder press which I eliminated over 30 years ago. So far, doing great.👍
Good to hear.
There's always someone who claims cigarettes aren't bad because they're 80 and been smoking for 50 years and in fine health. Outliers be outliers.
@@stretch1807 He's not an outlier. This advice is for sedentary people that have NEVER worked out and now @60, they realize their mistake and try these types of movements.
I'm 69, STILL work in an auto supply factory. Got told a few months ago that it looks like I work like a 27 year old.
That ain't luck. It's strength training, and ANYONE can improve at any age.
While I would agree for some people that these might not be the best moves, I most certainly can do all of these, (maybe press behind neck, I'm not real happy with). I don't do them however, but do variations thereof with heavy weights.
Do some research into strength training for seniors.
Strength training is the fountain of youth, and I'm living proof....so is Mr. Crimson.💪
@@stretch1807 The argument to avoid a particular exercise to avoid the stress it puts on the body is one of those questions with a yes and no answers. I would argue that upright rowing CAN be good precisely because it stresses the rotator cuff. The responds so stress strengthens the body part. This is only a problem when there is inadequate recovery. Imbalances are also a concern. I'd say that behind the head shoulder presses are kind of stupid mostly because it is a compound exercise. And with any compound exercise you want to lift as heavy as possible. Why put yourself in such an awkward position with a light exercise that doesn't target any particular muscles that you want to develop?
@@stretch1807 That 70+ year old is not an outlier. Their body is taking care of them today because they have been taking care of it from a young age. And its idiotic to compare something as constructive as regular exercise to something destructive as regular smoking.
50 here and love behind the neck press.
(50 year old, world benchpress champ, Jen Thompson does as well)😊
*Main point is to know your own body, and listen to it.
If you don’t have prior training or experience, injury is likely to happen
(any age) if you don’t know what your doing
Yes. These must be people who have problems. back extension for me feels very good and i have good mobility for behind the neck press also.
Alternative exercises to these would be helpful thanks
As a man in my mid 50's who's been adhering to these rules for many years (through self education), its great that you've put it out there to those not fully aware how much damage they can do to themselves! Great video. Keep them coming. Thanks very much 👍🏻
#1 Upright row
#2 Back extensions
#3 Crunches
#4 Behind neck press
#5 Neck rolls
Thanks. He should give the five quickly then go back and expound. Efficiency is videos is important.
Thank you
Thank you! Do you know what would be a substitution for upright row, back extensions, and most importantly, CRUCHES???
@@samsmom400for upright row, I'd say dumbell flys. It helped me build my shoulders & chest. You can either do them standing up or sitting down. Just ensure you bend your arms. Also, I use a power twister. I have the one with the highest tension. For crunches, I still do crunches, but I do it sitting at a 45 degree angle with a cushion behind my back & my legs bent, but not too high. For back extension I do push ups instead as well as the plank & a variation where I lay on the floor on my stomach & push my upper body up, using my elbows. Take care with this one, because it can lead to injury if not done with care. Lastly, for legs I find squats best, but I go down extremely low & hold in a sitting position before I go back up. It helps with improving balance as well
@@samsmom400wide grip and taking the elbows no higher than the shoulders is better.
I’m almost 65 and do all of these in yoga with the exception of the upright rows 4-5 per week. Never felt better.
That's you. Others might get injured
@@DebbieTDPany one at any age could get injured.
@@mhaas281 yes, but if you are already injured you'd better be wary. I trust more a professional than a yoga teacher. 🤫😄
I'm 62. Been doing back extensions for 20 years. It CURED me of back problems. When I began, I could hold the position for 3 minutes. I now hold for 15 minutes. I do it once every 3 weeks or so. I also do crunches every other week and neck rolls daily.
@@rocketscience4516 lucky you... this doesn't make him wrong though.
I received the same advice from my physiatrist, no neck rolls. The rest of exercises I wouldn't do anyway.
I prefer sprinting and hiit.
At 78 years old, I have a 27-minute routine I go through every morning involving 11 different exercises, stretches, and cardio. I was pleasantly surprised to find that none of my self-taught routine involves any of the five exercises you mention here.
I've only been doing all 5 for 10 years and twice a day!! Kidding.Great job old man!!! 💪
What are you doing? Mind if I ask?
@@knockknock1246
Equipment Required: *_MOTIVATION,_* Couch, 65 cm Yoga Ball, Pair of 2-lb Ankle Weights, Pair of 5-lb Barbells
1) Stretch Cross Knee Twist w/o Weights 30x
2) Standing, bar-bell lift to chin level 60x
3) All weights (14 lbs) on stomach, bridge 60x
4) Hold 60th bridge for 60 seconds
5) Sit ups w/ankle weights, 60x
6) Leg lift & barbell lift together, 60x
7) Stretch, pull knees to chest 60x
8) Pushups from toes, 15x
9) Pushups from knees, 60x
10) Yoga ball: left, right, forward, back 30x
11) Buttocks, shoulders, head against wall 2 minutes
Exercise #11 (hunchback correction) is the most difficult for me. I *_cannot_* make my head touch the wall. That *will* change, I'm working on it!🙁
Exercise #8, I can't always make the full 15 reps.😠
This routine takes me about 27 minutes except on the three days a week I go kayaking, when I reduce the repetitions by 50%. (I kayak competitively, don't want to start out tired to begin with.)😀
My daily test is to balance on one leg while I bend over and pull my socks onto the other foot. At 78 years old, that is harder than it sounds!
You need your own CZcams to demonstrate your routine to us and you'll make a couple bucks in the meantime as well!
Seriously, would like to see it.
Hey, I'd love to know what your 27-minute routine is.
I had been going to the gym since I was 30 years old. I am turning 66 and I still does the the same routine that I did in my 30's and I feels fine , I lift heavyweights
Thanks. I'm 89 and doing most of them to my own detriment. Actually I quit doing the Behind the neck Press quite a while ago as it caused me problems and I stopped that one luckily.
I'm glad my video could be of help!
@@HT-PhysioNo one should do behind the neck, l was 40 and got capsulitis of both shoulders because of them, never felt right at any age. 66 now and still got shoulder trouble in my right side.
Perfect video, thank you so much for explaining all this. I'm 60+ and I tell you you, I was putting my body at risk by doing things I used to do 30 years ago and are not suitable now.
yes, I can understand . sometimes the head tells other things than the body is now able to do and we ask why ?
Weird. I still do a workout I loved in the 80s now and it just feels wonderful. I'm 53. Common sense modifications as needed at any age.
You're very welcome - it's definitely true our bodies change significantly with age and it's hard to shift our habits!
Absolutely. Same situation over here. Since my mid-50s I needed to change nearly all exercises I've done in the years before. Old (sport-)injuries rose their ugly impacts and my mobility was never good. Getting diagnosed a lumbar spinalstenosis a decade ago was the initial trigger to change things. Recently I undergo some episodes of cervicogenic radiculopathy. That has stopped all kind of overhead press moves. It's a permanenz search and trial of exercises. My major problem hereby: most training plans or courses are designed for "rusty" or "never-ever-exercised" oldtimers. I'm in quite good condition and looking for courses 60+, but with the extra "kick", with a significant demand that one feels exhausted and not only warmed up.
What about pull-ups and pushups?
I'm over 50 and still using a back extension, but it's an isolation machine that starts in a curl position and then you pull back. It doesn't over extend the way you showed it here and has vastly improved my back strength and lowered my back pain after doing it twice a week for 6 months.
Yeah, that's an actual back extension and not whatever this was.
I just turned 53 and have always been very active. In the past 8 months, I've been having issues with my lower back and couldn't understand why since I go to the gym on a frequent basis and did what I thought was the right thing for strenghthening it... apparently, that's what has been causing these problems. I appreciate the video !
I've just turned 50 and have been doing Pilates on and off since my 30s. There's a few exercises here that I have been doing in my classes that haven't been working for me or have caused me pain (crunches, back extensions and neck rolls) - now I know why! Thanks Will. Your explanations are always exactly what I need.
It always helps to have an explanation to justify what you've been experiencing - happy I could help!
Will, thank you so much. You not only tell us what is best to do, and not do, but you explain why. This makes all the difference. I bought an expensive book from a spinal expert that you have cited yourself. The exercises he said not to do, he gave no explanation for. I’d like to know why. Something has to make sense to me, and by explaining why, or why not to do something, has more impact than saying, “do this, don’t do that, etc,” with no explanation.
@linjubaf Will actually explained very well the reasoning behind avoiding the 5 exercises. He is very knowledgeable and caring! Thank you Will!
It's definitely my aim to equip people with knowledge so they can make informed decisions for themselves, it helps to explain sensations that many people have already been experiencing and gives them an understanding of why
I have severe neck and back issues, and I'm 48. This channel is for me. I just subscribed! Thanks for your help!
At 66 I cycle often, swim and hike and I feel great. I also lift dumbbells but recently I got into a gym and tweaked my neck using weights (one session) and it took weeks to heal and the pain was intense. Great advice, what not to do!
I am so glad I found you! As a 74 YO female, I have injured myself doing some of these selected exercises. I am going to study your corrected exercises only. Thank you.
Always happy to help!
Im Glad I found him too and im 61😊
Oh my god so surprised about the neck roll. No more neck grinding for me. When I heard the noise in my neck I thought i was doing good. Never agsin
I restrict my gym exercises to: push ups, pull ups, weighted squats, deadlifts, lunges, and balancing. I believe this covers the key muscles I need to keep strong. No machines, just barbell & weights, and a height bar for the pull ups.
How old are you?
@@DeanCollins-qt2ht 69
I’m 74 and workout at the gym and what scares me the most is younger fitness coaches who encourage seniors to do knee bends, I have actually watched people my age grimace in pain as their “instructor” encourages the senior to do one more set!
If you are >50 and believe a don't know nothing instructor even when they have pain, than their body is the lesser problem....
What an interesting video. I’m an 81 year old active person and it’s nice to know that the exercises I do are beneficial and not harmful to me. Thank you and I look forward to more of your videos for the over 50’s
I knew, based just on the title, that if I watched this you'd tell me to stop doing some exercise that I do on the regular. And sure enough, I often do back extensions. I'm in the "use it or loose it" phase of life, and I exercise much more consistently at 65 than ever before, including back extensions, and I have no back pain, even though just ten years ago I did.
Excellent video.
As a 79 year old male who regularly goes to the gym this video was very helpful
I'm very glad to hear I could be of help
Thank you for all your videos and help. I am 67 and starting to have concerns . These are very helpful. Great to see these for over 50.
I just found your channel. I really like how you explain things. I'm 58, and have scoliosis, so I'm always trying to be careful about the exercises I do.
It is a fantastic video, I am 80 years old, try to rebuild my core strength so I can extend all my work out routines like biking, walking and swimming as long as I be able to stand up, this video sure showed me somethings i had done wrong, very appreciated for your help.
You're very welcome
Will, when you reference people in their 50s, 60s and 70s, please include 80s. We’re here, quite active, and can outwalk, outswim, and outstrength many people in their 50s and 60s. Please don’t neglect us.
I'm 80 and I can't outdo anybody but I would like to get stronger without injury. Any good exercises for little old ladies would be appreciated. It just seems like there are so many exercises to choose from I'm dumbfounded and just go watch tv instead.
You know what? Thanks for that comment. I get 56 in a few weeks but your comment really makes me optimistic. 😊
Every time Will says over 50s, know that he is talking about you. 😊
@@thisearththeonlyheaven
True but the solution to this problem would be for him to say over 50 and then stop. Don't itemize 60s 70s. We know what over 50 means. We've been doing math for a long time. 😁
So typical of many physios Ive encounted in my 50 yr gym experience.
Doing the "wrong exercise " means doing the right exercise incorrectly. Doesnt matter what your age is.
The younger ones cause much of their later problems with incorrect form.
There is also a huge difference between those who take up specific muscular exercise later in life, when the damage is already done. The only time I recommend swimming with VERY loos technique (no repetative strain injury). Breastbstroke being the best of the four.
Physios are part of the " medical establishment ", part of ITS role is to keep their customers. There are a few exeptions as there are in all branches....and there is an across the board slow waking up process going on.
As a trainer for over 20 years, I was taught to never curl the chin towards your chest when doing crunches. I'm about to turn 59, and doing a series of different crunches adding up to 100 has never caused a problem. In fact, I don't hardly feel it and prefer ball work, pushups, suspended leg raises, etc. I have scoliosis of the neck too. Scoliosus runs in my family. I was taught to keep your neck in a more neutral position with the chin pointing towards the ceiling, then to carefully raise just your scapula off the floor without pulling the head forward, and hold in slower, controlled movements. The reason most people shouldn't do crunches at any age is for the same reason most shouldn't do lunges or squats. Their form is wrong and will cause injuries. Also, if you never "fling" or "yank" your movements, and you keep your tempo slower, you will greatly reduce the chances of injuries, and you'll get so much more out of it. Thanks for pretty much backing up what I've been telling everyone. Also, one of the National Educators for National Academy of Sports Medicine told hundreds of us that if a trainer tells you to perform bar shoulder presses behind your head, or over-unders, fire them immediately.😅
As a gymnast who used to have to do hundreds of crunches every practice I must agree with you. We were taught to keep our heads neutral (never pull on the neck, in fact we had to cross our arms across our chest usually but sometimes arms out straight by the ears), and to keep our back straight as well and pull our chests up towards the ceiling.
@racheljones8935 Yes! Sometimes old school is best too. I started out in gymnastics but grew too tall over a summer.🤣 For a while, exercises were getting so ridiculous with single-leg BOSU squats with a broom stick behind your head, touching a red cone, alternating sides, etc. After a few years of doing these complex "sexy" exercises, I discovered my clients, and I got more out of some of the standards with maybe some simple form adjustments. Another knit-pick of mine is trainers who let clients perform "lazy" planks. That's when they don't tell them to squeeze their glutes and thighs. If you have a pretty decent core, you could do a good-looking lazy prone iso-ab and rent yourself out as a coffee table because you're not getting anything out of it and can stay like that for several minutes.🤣 I'd rather get an efficient 20-minute workout that hits
everything I need, than spend an hour pretending and looking good.
Thank you Will for sharing this video. I recently turned 70 and I am quite active, cycling is my favorite exercise. I do walk some with our Pitbull .We also have a lap pool. I have spinal stenosis and a lot of Arthritis. I have a crick in my neck this morning and when you showed the exercise not to do for the neck ,I thought, no problem. I have never been a gym / workout / run kind of a guy. I have always done hard physical work. I worked in a factory for 43 years . I have had many orthopedic injuries over the years and now they have caught up with me. Your videos are a breath of fresh air .
Just turned 61. I do crunches, and gymnastic exercises which includes some of things shown. If I didn't do these things, I'd be stoved up for sure.
I appreciate your attention to these issues. My only comment is that doing Supermans (back extensions) are the only thing that really has helped eliminate my lumbar pain. I don’t do them quickly.
Me too. A 10 rep x 20 seconds each superman pose does relieve my low back pain quite fast
Yes, the good and the bad with so much info is conflicting. I'm 62 with a terrible weak stiff back. I though the back extensions were supposed to be good. It seems I can barely do 1 enough to . The cobra seems like I could force it to injury. I have too much fear of exercise do to warnings and sensations. Who to trust?
Interesting indeed. I find that the Superman pose is the only thing that relieves my lower back pain…temporarily anyway ..but almost immediately!
Temporary relief of back pain does not mean Superman back extensions are good for you. The top scientist in the field Stuart McGill recommends against them.
I am over 50 and thank you SO much for these precious advices! Greetings from Zagreb, Croatia.
Simply the best, to get info about inadvisable movement (it's about being protective). Many people don't realise, it pays to think of risk, rather than overdo!
Absolutely - it's better to be safe than sorry!
This was great! The only thing that would have made it better would be 1 replacement exercise for each. Think you could do that without stepping on your book
Very informative! Please include alternatives for ALL the exercises like you did for #4-behind neck press/pull down.
Agreed. Telling us what we shouldn't do is only half the answer. Giving us safe alternative exercises completes the information.
I was expecting him to show the alternatives😒
1. Upright Row with Dumbbells, Shoulder Presses with Dumbbells
2. Good Morning or Bow with a light barbell
3. Bird Dog
4. Crunches with your hands sliding forward on the ground
5. He already gave a good alternative ;)
@@davidcohen7881over 50 you should be doing zero exercises pushing weights above your head
@@SN-ho2qs does that mean we should never put anything on a higher shelf or take anything down from a high shelf? It's a basic movement people do in life. But not to do a behind the neck press. Do Military Barbell Presses (in front of the head) or Dumbbell Presses.
I’m glad you differentiate the “Cobra” stretch from the Back Extension. As I watched your video for the first time I was thinking, “Well I do the Cobra stretch, is that bad too?’ Bur I also do another stretch - it’s been called by different names: “The Superman,” or “The Airplane.” One lies on his stomach, raises his torso and legs at the same time and holds the position - for me it’s a 30 second hold. So far I have had no injuries with that stretch. I’ve done it for practically my entire life.
Thank you so much. I am 57 and sadly, still trying to exercise the same as when I was 20. Every now and then it's a great idea to take a step back and overhaul routines to match our bodies needs. Thank you for sharing your insight. It helps tremendously. Especially the neck roll, wow, you hit the nail on the head. I actually thought it was natural to hear all that crackling when rolling my head around on my neck. Static head exercise rather than rolling really made an amazing difference in the neck stiffness that I have always felt. Thank you!
I am 60 have been working out all of my life and doing all of the above exercises.. One of my favorite for shoulders is the row and love it. In fact haven't stopped feeling great 🇬🇷
Same here but at around 65 it caught up with me, just saying !!
I’ve been a gym-rat since I was 15 years old and I still go to the gym 3X’s a week at age 60+. I agree with all the exercises that you do NOT recommend for seniors although I didn’t know about the risk of neck rolls. THANKS!
Happy to help and keep up the great work!
I’m 66 now and am forever thinking I should start doing some strength exercises. I still have the free weights I used in my 20’s and was tempted to follow the same routine. I am relieved to be told I can cross 5 of them off! I will definitely be checking out your other videos to enable me to come up with an age appropriate routine.
Careful with the neck exercises. I over did it on the neck rolls. I can hardly turn my head now after three days. It's not delayed pain onset either.
I'm 62 and can do most exercises-with arthritis in my knees.i avoid skullcrushers and behind the neck pull downs.the latter can be dangerous at any age tbh
Couldn't agree more about the neck rolls! I've never had neck problems and always found this movement awkard so rountinely skip it when it comes along in SO many yoga classes for decades. I'm glad to have my personal intuition about this one validated!
Thank you for explaining why for each exercise. Please show what weight resistance exercises is best for osteoporosis.
Hi Mr Physio. Just found your channel and this was my first view. I turned 50 this summer and stuff like this is just what I need. I learned more than the five exercises right off the bat. Thank you! 🙂
Thank you -- I appreciate the good advice. I've been doing several of these exercises and will look for alternatives,
I am turning sixty eight this year and I truly appreciate the information you are giving me here.
Excellent presentation and information. I really appreciate that you give explanations why and in what context an exercise might not be advisable. No drama or waffle, just science. Thank you!
You're welcome - I'm really glad my format works for you, I appreciate the feedback!
Great channel Will. One of the best exercise routines that I feel helps me, is walking in the countryside over uneven ground (helps with balance) and climbing over stiles - which are usually all different and require a different approach every time and use various muscle groups to get over. I am 75 and I find that most people my age have become very unfit by not stretching themselves when they were younger, and by the time they are in their 70s have deteriorated so much that they are in danger of falls and cannot tackle even a moderate challenge. So my advice to the ‘over 50s’ is get out into the countryside and build up stamina slow-ly, then increase the challenges bit by bit. (Always take medical advice before pushing yourself too far) Marathons/ half marathons are a ‘no -no’! They put far too much strain on the body and its systems, and are a modern exercise ‘fad’, (in my estimation).
Keep up the great work you're doing!
Can’t thank you enough! I’m 65 and after surviving cancer I’m ready to better my health with exercise. I want to begin golfing again could you do a simple video for those of us that are playing golf into our senior years to strengthen the needed muscles to support the golf swing! I’m hoping to play into my 70’s and 80’s🙏🏻
I'm so glad to hear about your recovery that is great news! I will add your suggestion to my list of future topics!
I finally have the answer for all the “noise” I hear in my neck with some movements….the facets…I never considered that. I will avoid movements that induce those sounds so as not to grind the facets going forward. Thank you.
I was performing the neck exercise this morning - I didn't think it was doing any good so will no longer be trying it! As someone in my fifties - I do keep myself fit, keep my weight down and because of a few injuries now have the mindset of that if I wish to retain and maintain my current level of mobility and health, then I need to start thinking of the long game - i.e. don't do things that could adversely affect my health - such as performing the type of neck exercise I did earlier! Thanks for the video.
Keep up the great work!
WOW Will,
This information explains a lot of why I’ve been experiencing pain in my shoulders. I especially love your example of the neck rolls. Thank you 😊
Thanks for a great presentation.
It always helps to have an explanation to justify what you've been experiencing - happy I could help!
THANK YOU so much for this. I'm 59 years old and sustained two unfortunate, foolish injuries using weights in my 20's. These five movements I've seen practiced on by the CZcams workout instructors I follow but noticed I couldn't do them without aggravating my chronic injuries. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CHANNEL. I just subscribed to your channel to help me avoid injuring myself doing at-home YOuTube workouts.
So pleased my video was able to offer some useful advice to save you from injury - thank you for subscribing, I hope you find great benefit from my exercises :)
I agree with everything you say from my perspective.
I have trained all my life I'm now 57.
My shoulders have always been tight so my best shoulder press was basically a high incline press, the behind neck and upright row have always been killers for me.
I have only recently started doing the Hyperextension and have started getting back problems, when I was 25 I ruptured my bottom disc doing heavy squats, it happened the next day when I bent over at work and tore, Sciatica for a year is no joke, so I've always had a stiff back.
For abs I just pull my stomach in and hold it while walking the dog 4 times a day and it seems to work, I find the plank strains my back and I now have serratus anterior (SA) paralysis on my right side so I find that position difficult.
As you see, I wasn't born to be Mr Olympia 🤣
Thanks for the advice 👍
I remember being taught to do neck rolls in PE at high school. That's definitely one I will be avoiding now! Thanks Will ❤
Neck rolls have nothing to do with age, they are simply an inappropriate exercise full stop.
I was just sitting here remembering neck rolls as a warm up in high school PE. 😊
PE teachers were sadists in my day😂
I'm 54 and love doing neck rolls, lol. Feels wonderful, just needs to be done carefully, as always.
@@SilverSparkles22 I'm 81 now but back when, I was PE coordinator at a junior school. I used to go to all the courses available to me and learned about the dangers of neck rolls, so it was never part of any warm ups and I passed that info to all the members of staff, explaining why, and that all neck exercises should be done in one plane. I retired in 2000 so it's not something new.
This was incredibly helpful. I'm 72, active, and appreciated the good info about what not to do, and to see things demonstrated. Thank you!
You're very welcome
You ,are doing a great job telling everyone how to do the work out the right way! Sharing his caring! Thanks again for the tips!
Always enjoy your videos. Would very much like to see a video on exercises to do and not to do for those with neck pains from neck arthritis and years of poor posture. Thank you !
Thank you for your comment - I will add it to my list for future videos!
Hi Will, I am so thankful that I do not do any of these exercises, although most of the exercises you demonstrated were very familiar to me.
Thank you for sharing this very important information, and for helping us stay safe. ❤
Always happy to help - keeping everyone safe and healthy is my goal!
Good info. I'm just turning 74 and have been using a rowing machine most of my life along with a cross trainer which I broke and I'm a cyclist along with light weights. So far no health issues.
Thanks for the tips very informative!
Yes!! I never understood why the neck rolls were considered a good thing!! Thank you so much for your very valuable and helpful videos!! I appreciate you!! 🙏🏻
Neck rolls are simply an inappropriate exercise full stop.
Always happy to help, thank you for your kind words!
Always hated neck rolls. Don’t do exercises where you can hear your body react!
Mike Tyson ruined his neck by doing years of neck rolls.
I'm in my 60s. My favorite exercise is the powerlifting squat. Tremendous benefits!
Powerlifting training requires focus upon the rear chain muscles: gluts, hamstrings, back, triceps, rear delts
We do millons of back extensions with weight.
Keys: shoulder blades must squeeze together during nearly all exercises. That will prevent most problems.
Good biomechanics is the key. It's not the exercise you do as much as good biomechanics and muscular balance.
Reading the comments is so inspiring. A lot of people over 50 are active and and trying their best to stay healthy and fit. Good job people 👏🏻👏🏻❤️ I've turned 41 this year and I've been doing yoga for around 8 years, and pole dance for 2.5 years. After watching a lot of my gym mates getting injured (mostly in their 20s and 30s, and few who are older) I've learned that the key to staying safe while working out is to know when to respect my physical boundaries and when to push just a little to expand these boundaries. And it's OK if these boundaries change from time to time (For example, I'm usually OK with neck rolls, but there are days when my shoulder and neck muscles feel so stiff. I don't do these rolls on these days). It's easier to work with my body, not against it.
Thank you very much for taking the time to make this video.
This all depends on your condition. I have a C5,C6 pinched nerve condition and some of these moves are part of my daily physical therapy routine.
This is exactly what I was thinking. Sometimes training advice becomes so generalized here on YT.
I have been training since the age of 13 on and off and I am 58 now. I still do all of those exercises without issue. Proper form is the most important takeaway of this video. At 58 I am still in what I consider exceptional shape. Aside from proper form is being effective with less weight. Control and time under tension is how to be effective with less weight. Most important is to spend just as much time stretching and lengthening your muscles as you do for your resistance training. BTW the advice would be better taken from someone over 50.
no issue for you, cos u have been practicing since young.
i would be problem for people who never do exercise
and now they want to do it at 50s
@@moh6410 I agree that those who haven't trained would find these difficult. However, with the right approach by beginning with stretching and starting with exercises that are easier to target the same muscle groups you can increase flexibility and strength to work up to more difficult exercises. I will concede that some people just cannot do upright rows no matter what age due to limitations of their own bio-mechanics. My workout partner and I were both in our early twenties and he would always feel a pinch at the top of the motion. This was a limitation of his own bio-mechanics. If you feel that pinch do not do upright rows there are plenty of other exercises. Grip position of this exercise can also target different muscle groups. Close grip will work the trapezius and a wide grip will work rear deltoids. The main thing is control the weight and be safe.
The issue is some people never played sports or did any excercise ,they woke up one morning when they turn 50 and decide to go to gym, nothing wrong with that but it is a ling road to become and stay fit .
Im 62 and doing Calesthenics but I did not started " yesterday " it is years of training
@@cheguevara5560 Agreed. It is a long road if you are starting at age 50 but not impossible. Look at Ernestine Shepard who started competitive body building at age 50. I think a person of any age or sex for that matter can draw inspiration from her. Type her name in the search above and prepare yourself to be inspired.
i understand these recommendtions are for the average person, been training for 30 years since i was 15 and have no issue with these high risk exercises but then i am definitely not in the average group.
Great tips. I stopped doing all of those a long time ago and never had another injury in 12 years.
Thanks so much, for this. I do tummy crunches but more slowly than you show, here, and I don't start from as far back or use my neck in the way that you demonstrate. Having said that, I do experience neck pain and stiffness very often and some days it can be very debilitating.
Avoiding the Neck Rolls is a great tip and I have often wondered why my neck made those noises while I did them. Also, thanks for showing us the proper way to flex/stretch our necks. I'll play that part, again, so I know it by heart.
I've been doing back extensions and had no idea that they could be problematic. I've a sore and stiff lower back so I'll stick to the exercises that a Physio once showed me and skip that one.
The behind the neck Barbell routine has always seemed like a crazy idea to me. But it's good to have my misgivings reinforced.
Looking forward to seeing if you have any further videos which can demonstrate healthy exercises for the over 50's.
Wishing everyone, here, a Happy Christmas and a prosperous and healthy New Year. 🙂
I'm going to be 52 next month. I actually do all the barbell movements you mentioned in this video. I'm fortunate I'm able to do them as I've gotten a lot of benefits from them.
Upright rows and behind the neck presses are lousy movements for people of any age. There are much better alternatives
Upright rows should be avoided by everyone regardless their age. Horrible for shoulders,elbows wrists
I broke the cartilage in my wrist doing this exercise. Bad exercise for me.
As a fitness instructor, I teach crunches to be done at about half the range of motion, with the eyes fixed on the ceiling as it doesn't over extend your neck, the abs are to be flexed as you bring yourself up and raise your upper body not your shoulders only. Good video! Especially regarding the neck movements.
Thank you. You confirmed what I feel about those nasty neck rolls. I'll be 49 in January, and I thought I better prepare for what's ahead of me by watching your channel for example 😊
Good morning ! I’m learning a lot from your channel .
Thank you for your support!
Brilliant tips. Thank you. I've never liked any of these--particularly the upright row and neck rolls. Agree--there are plenty of alternatives out there to all these often dicey moves.
You're welcome - and I agree, it's better to be safe than sorry!
Thank you!!! I’m 59 and had back surgery in January 2024. I’m allowed to start exercise now and your videos are very helpful!
Subscribed 🥰
Great video, and as a newer member of the 50 club I greatly appreciate it because I am starting to experience issues with the active lifestyle I have been doing for decades with weight training and various cardio activities. You mentioned a few ideas of alternatives for these exercises, but I think a follow video with details about alternatives would be great.
Hi there - I have now added a video on my suggested alternatives - please find it here! czcams.com/video/o-EVXBGjav0/video.html
Thank you for your recommendation for people who are over 50. I’m 70 years old and I served over 21 years in the United States Marine Corps as an Officer. I am disabled due to my time in the Marine Corps and in combat. I can definitely relate with your experience and recommendations. I mainly use resistance bands and just a 25-26 lbs barbell with no weights. I have a routine training program that I had developed for myself. Since been diagnosed with CHF about a year ago, I’ve tried to exercise regularly for at least 30-40 minutes. I do have rest days that I only do stretching exercises. My question to you is am I over doing my exercises. I maintain a good weight and get a lot of vegetables more than read meat. Sometimes I have pastas. But am I overworking myself?
Hi. Great video, thanks. What exercise(s) do you recommend to strengthen the lower back muscles?
Bent over row.. either with DB or barbell.
Always great advice, your videos really helped with my recovery from meniscus treat.
Thank you Will. Being 73 I’ve always wondered if I should be doing some of these exercises. The one you did lying on your stomach has always been difficult for me and leaves me slightly sore. Now I know why..👍
Awesome video! Highly useful tips, clearly explained and truly helpful! Thank you so much for providing your expertise Will! Keep up the good work!🙌👌❤👍
Thank you so much!
52 year old here that's been doing back extensions and crunches for decades with zero problems and will continue to do them.
You go girl !!!
cool story bro
So you've mostly been doing them under the age of 50 then.
It appears that some of these cretins have been drinking the Kool-Aid. So what, I turn 50 and suddenly I'm not able to perform exercises I've done for years with safety and efficacy? Also, I'm sorry, but what is this guy, like 19? Let him turn 50 and then decide what he is no longer able to do. I'm also 52 and I'm literally as strong as I've ever been and have never suffered a lifting-related injury of any significance. I'm also a proponent of low volume, failure training. I only perform 6-8 sets per body part per week. Finally, all of these are crap exercises, regardless of age, and I'd strongly advise against anyone doing them. Over 50 my ass. If you just turned 50 and are a noob, then perhaps you should be cautious about what exercises you choose to perform. Otherwise, if you're well trained/experienced, just keep doing what you're doing. There are no magic numbers.
I'm 65 and still do crunches. Do them slowly and good position. The rest of the excersizes are a good idea to avoid.....
Great recommendations that agree with my experience in the gym. The right exercises and techniques help, the wrong ones set us back and need to be avoided.
Thanks a lot. This is exactly what I needed now.
Brilliant and sound advice as always Will! 👍
Thank you!
Hi Will. How about planks? Prone and back planks helped with core strength but lateral planks might put too much stress on certain joints and muscles. What do you think?
I am glad to see this video. When I am not lazy, I will do several hundred crunches which often include knees bent to each side. I also do a few hundred leg kicks. My shoulders will only allow a few push-ups, but absolutely no pull-ups. At 73, this Vietnam Marine wants a few more good years of movement.
WOW super video based on evidence! I shall be sharing this with my ergonomic clients!!!! Thank you HT Physio
Great tips! Being on the cusp of 65 I still do a few hundred slow crunches as part of my daily routine, perhaps I need to find another option. Any suggestions?
I disagree with the link with age. How bad the exercises are for you depends on your mobility.
Agreed, also, the individual’s fitness level. I’m 67 and reasonably fit, although I agree with the last one
I prob wrecked my neck no wonder had migraines for years
Yes, I don't like the automatic link to age. I'm 53 with scoliosis and arthritis and I have no problems doing these exercises. He's just click-baiting
@@bstoh2884 You are absolutely wrong! Those 5 exercises I did in my younger years ok now give me a lot of grief, especially the neck one. I've been doing it for years & never knew how bad it is. Ive just been to the hospital to be told I have massive wear & tear on my neck. Will is definitely NOT click baiting. That comment is truly insulting to someone who has put hours of effort into helping us for older folk FOC!!!!!!!!
He literally has a disclaimer on the screen near the start of the video:
"Please Remember: Advice not suitable for all, check with your healthcare provider first." He also says something to the same effect.
Individuals vary, of course there will be people over 50 who are more fit, have less mobility issues, and can do some or all of these exercises. And they will be people under 50 who are less fit, have more mobility issues, and can benefit from videos like this. That doesn't mean the video is useless, it just means use a little common sense in deciding how much of it applies.
Thanks a lot, Will! It was very helpful for me to know which exercises are not good at my age. Really precious information!
Im 57yrs old and stopped the press behind the neck when i was in my late thirties. For years i had neck problems (stiff neck lack of rotation) it would last days . Stopped doing that exercise and never had a problem with my neck since.
I was sent to PT for a herniated disc. One of the exercises I was given was a deep squat at the barre. After several sessions I complained of knee pain but was told to dig in harder with my heels. Needless to say my knees are destroyed. I’m 73 and I would like you to add the squat to your never do list.
Yes, I tore my meniscus doing a deep squat
I have been using the crunch machine at the gym to try and strengthen my core because I have some major back problems. I thought the crunch would help. Thank you for this video. I am 70. Please tell me where I can find the more beneficial exercise for my spine.
Thank you once again for the informative explanations of what not to do as we age. Grateful you are sharing with us
I am 52 and doing a few of the exercises you demonstrated. I need alternatives please. Thank you so much!
Will, Pleeeeease bring out some dvd's full workouts we can buy to follow you, as if we are in your class. You would sell millions & it is so much easier for us oldens to keep to a routine (just pop it into our machine every day & watch & follow). On here, we have to keep stopping you, then try & remember how to do the exercise, then press play again... over & over, & it gets tiresome. If you did dvd's with you doing a 30min workout, it would be so enjoyable for us to work along side you. My hubby & I love your exercises, you truly are amazing. Thank you.