Embracing Fitness at Any Age: The Inspiring Journey of Patti Cloar

Staying active and maintaining strength as we age can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. Patti Cloar, a dedicated fitness instructor at the Family Activity Center, embodies this mission. Through her engaging classes, she empowers older adults to keep moving, build community, and enjoy the process of fitness.

Photo of Patti Cloar and her workout class.

A Journey into Fitness

Patti’s fitness journey began when she moved to her new community in 1995. A neighbor invited her to join a fitness class, and she quickly found joy in the activity—enough that she continued attending even when her neighbor stopped. Over the years, her passion blossomed, leading the gym owners to invite her to become an instructor. “I never planned on teaching, but now I’ve been doing it for 23 years,” Patti says with pride.

At 71, Cloar has developed a wealth of experience by teaching a variety of classes, from Zumba and Pilates to strength training. While she has honed her focus on strength training, offering six classes a week, her enthusiasm and dedication to fitness remain unwavering.

Why Strength Training Matters

Patti is a firm believer in the importance of strength training for maintaining and building muscle mass as we age. “It helps preserve bone mass, which diminishes with age,” she notes. By fostering a friendly and fun environment in her classes, she ensures her students look forward to their workouts.

In her classes, the social aspect is just as crucial as physical activity. Patti incorporates trivia and games to lighten the mood, making workouts enjoyable. “The hardest part about working out is showing up,” she says, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Building Community Through Fitness

One of the standout features of Patti’s classes is the sense of community she has cultivated. When a member faces hardships, like illness or surgery, the class rallies together to offer support, whether through gifts or checks. They even celebrate together with annual events, such as a Christmas lunch at a member’s cabin.

Patti’s caring approach extends beyond fitness; she supports her students both in and out of the gym. After her own hip injury two years ago, her class members brought her meals and helped her return to teaching.

Tailoring Workouts for Individual Needs

A significant aspect of her teaching involves modifying exercises for various abilities. “I have to teach someone who is standing and another who is on the floor at the same time,” she explains. This adaptability ensures that everyone can participate and benefit from her classes, regardless of their fitness level.

The Bottom Line: Stay Active

Patti believes wholeheartedly that strength must be utilized to be retained. Keeping active can enhance balance, flexibility, and overall health as we age. She encourages her students to engage in resistance training to preserve muscle and maintain their ability to perform daily tasks without discomfort.

As Patti puts it, “If you don’t use those muscles, you gradually lose strength.” Her classes are not about bodybuilding; they’re about enhancing everyday living.

Conclusion

Patti Cloar is more than just a fitness instructor; she’s a beacon of hope and community. Through her classes, she fosters a supportive environment that empowers older adults to prioritize their physical fitness and engage socially. By understanding the significance of strength training and maintaining an active lifestyle, we can all aspire to enjoy our golden years with strength and vitality. So, whether you’re just starting or looking to maintain your fitness, remember: strength comes from community, effort, and a willingness to show up.