Strength Training for Older Adults [S-26-39]

Presenter:Richard Bradshaw, Alexander Kodama
Location: Potsdam Town Hall (18 Elm St.)
Additional Locations:Bjorn Fitness Center (in Market Sq Mall, 22 Depot St.)
Classes: 3 Sessions 1.5 hours
Dates: Mon 11:00 AM 04/20, 04/27, 05/04
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Being strong is an essential part of aging well. This seminar will explore the physical and psychological benefits of strength training, including increasing muscle mass and bone density, boosting mood, preventing injury, and improving brain health.

  • Session 1: We will discuss the rationale for strength training and present evidence that strength training is appropriate for all older adults, regardless of their physical condition. Participants will sign up for which Session 2 they would like to attend.
  • Session 2: Participants will be introduced to various strength training exercises and equipment through practical demonstrations. This session will be held twice at Bjorn Fitness Center in Potsdam; each participant will attend only the one that they sign up for in session 1.
  • Richard Bradshaw, who retired in 2019, now resides in Colton with his wife Kathleen Wallace. He remains actively engaged in his community as a substitute teacher in the local public schools and as a presenter of SOAR courses. Richard is a grandfather of three and enjoys a variety of hobbies, including hiking, teaching, and weight training. His passion for strength training has led him to attend events such as the "Starting Strength Camp: The Self-Sufficient Lifter" in Wichita Falls, TX, and a session with Jonathan Sullivan, author of The Barbell Prescription, in Detroit, MI. Locally, he has trained with Alexander Kodama at Bjorn Fitness in Potsdam. Recently, Richard expanded his knowledge of barbell training and coaching by completing the Coaching 101 and Principles courses from the Barbell Logic Academy.

    Alexander Kodama, the founder and owner of Bjorn Fitness in Potsdam, is dedicated to empowering his clients to live longer, healthier lives. His journey began in 2019 when he started coaching friends and family, marking the inception of Bjorn Fitness. Since then, he has successfully led over 2,600 group and one-on-one sessions annually. Alexander holds certifications from StrongFirst, Flexible Steel, and the National Academy of Sports Medicine, underscoring his expertise in fitness and wellness. Outside of his professional pursuits, he enjoys spending time with his five cats and one dog, indulges in math as a hobby, and is an avid reader. His true passion lies in creating innovative solutions that help people improve themselves and achieve their full potential.

    Special Instructions:

    The participants will attend only one of the two sessions at Bjorn Fitness, based on the session they choose to sign up for.

    Cap: 45



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    SUNY Potsdam
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    Phone: 315-267-2690

    E-Mail: soar@potsdam.edu

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