Emma Mattison | Holistic Fitness & Health for 40+

A: I've carefully designed these programs to meet the unique health and wellness needs of adults over 40. This program is specifically designed for adults over 40 who are new to fitness, returning after a break, or returning after rehabilitation from an injury. It's ideal for those who just want to improve confidence and strength to carry out functional, daily tasks.

A: There are no specific fitness prerequisites for this program. If you have any significant mobility or balance concerns, this program is a step up from my Beginner Functional Fitness Program, and I recommend starting there, first. This program is crafted for older adults or those with some mobility concerns, so no prior experience with kettlebells is required. I do recommend consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any new fitness regimen, especially if you have any health concerns.

For this program, you'll need a kettlebell (adjustable works) or a selection of kettelbells or dumbbells ranging from 5-25 lbs (more details in your program for weight selection), and a sturdy chair. While I provide specific product recommendations within the program, feel free to use any suitable alternatives you have access to. The key is choosing equipment that's comfortable for you, ensuring a safe and effective workout. Avoid using unstable or cushioned furniture to maintain proper form and safety.

A: The Older Adult Kettlebell Training program is an 8-week course that focuses on mastering functional movement patterns via kettlebell training style. We start by teaching the foundational movements and gradually increase volume each week — meaning more repetitions or sets — to build your strength and proficiency. The progression prioritizes volume first, allowing you to become comfortable and confident with each movement before moving on to more complex exercises. The course features a combination of highly detailed "teaching" videos, which provide thorough instruction on form and highlight common mistakes, and "practice" videos. These practice videos are designed for you to work alongside after learning the movements, ensuring continuous reinforcement of critical form reminders. This approach ensures a solid foundation in functional fitness, tailored to mature adults embarking on their fitness journey.

A: I am a NASM-certified Personal Trainer, nutrition coach, and a specialist in functional aging through the Functional Aging Institute (FAI). Through the FAI, I also have numerous specific certifications in working with clients with joint replacements, kettlebells, as well as having my certification for Tai Chi. Additionally, I hold certifications in stretch and flexibility coaching and am a qualified virtual trainer. Currently, I am furthering my education with graduate studies in Exercise Physiology, with a concentration on exercise physiology and protocol development.

A: While these programs are designed to be self-guided, I ensure that all the necessary resources you need to succeed, including detailed program guidelines, exercise descriptions, and nutritional advice (if applicable), are at your fingertips. However, for clients who need more hands-on support and accountability, I recommend exploring my 1-on-1 training options. Furthermore, each program comes with Emma Mattison Fitness Community access to peer support!