How to make most of Cathe's videos over 55 y/o

[ursel]

I am now 58 years old (yikes! how did that happen?) In their "pure" form Cathe's videos are too advanced for me so I modify them by doing lower impact moves, or fewer reps, or using much lighter weights. Nevertheless, I can rarely finish an entire video.

I'm interested in using the videos wisely to make the biggest gains that I can at my age. I am not entirely out of shape but i do notice the effects of aging.

I am wondering if any of you have any suggestions as to which videos are best or how to approach using them so that I can make gains w/o overdoing it.
thanks!

 

[melrose]

I'll be 55 in February. I own all Cathe's videos. I also modify all Cathe's videos.

I have 2 bum knees, so only use a 4-inch step. I also don't do most turns or pivots - they accomplish nothing for me except to make me dizzy! (Also, I work out on carpet).

Cathe usually starts out showing the lower-impact option of all moves. Most jumping is stepping for me; most running is marching in place.

Believe me, you'll still get a great workout with these modifications!

 

[mparker]

I just turned 61 and have been doing Cathe since her first video in the late eighties. I started out with 8" step at that time, but due to sciatica and bad knees as I aged, I also use 4" and take out most of the jumps and still get a great workout.....I learned that I don't have to follow exactly has Cathe to get a great workout and age is no reason to give her up. Just modify and don't feel bad about it....
maryann

 

[kathryn]

I agree with taking out pivot moves. I find those more risky and stressful to the knees than some impact moves. And also be very careful with some moves that go from the side of the step to the back or vice versa. SOmetimes, to make the transition smooth on the knees, you have to take an extra big step back or to the side (which Cathe usually doesn't cue). There are some transitions like this in Low Max, for example, as well as some other workout.

Cardio may be more challenging also because of the rpm of the music.

It's much easier to modify weight workouts than cardio workouts, because you can use lighter weights (as you do). I'd also suggest longer breaks between sets (as we get older, our bodies need more recovery time, not just between workouts for the same body part, but between sets of exercises).

Some premixes are shorter than the main workout, and some are lower impact, so you might want to check them out.