I have a 58 year old client who wants to reduce her hip measurements of 42.5 inches.
She is five feet, 3 inches, weighs 112lbs, she wears a size 6 on the top but a size 12 on the bottom. She doesn’t have a great sense of balance so she finds lunges challenging, and her knees tend to get painful after a couple of sessions of squats, lunges etc. Her fitness levels are not great either and I am cautious about getting her heart rate up with bike intervals. I am at loss on how to help her achieve her goals. Any suggestions?
Hi Tonia,
I do think with your client’s height and weight that some of it is genetic. It may still be possible for her to lose inches, but you can’t spot reduce–and you can’t be sure where she’ll lose it.
I would find out what exactly is going on with her knees assuming you’ve checked her form for squats and lunges. She could have arthritis, etc…. The cause will help you develop a plan for leg work around her limitations. Also include a balanced strength plan for her upper body and core.
As far as her cardio, you’ll have to work with her gradually to increase her endurance. She can do steady state if that works for her–she has to start somewhere. Walking, biking, swimming, elliptical–it just depends on whether or not the machines bother her knees. Eventually, intervals can be incorporated, you just have to monitor her.
Good luck with your client.
Christine