For athletes and fitness enthusiasts over 60, staying active requires more than just regular exercise—it demands smart training choices that support long-term health and mobility. While traditional treadmills remain popular, curved manual treadmills are emerging as an effective option for senior fitness. Today, we explore how one 67-year-old athlete transformed his training routine with the Aussie Pro Runner, offering insights for anyone looking to maintain their fitness later in life.
Key Takeaways
- Manual treadmills offer unique benefits for seniors including natural pace control and low-impact training
- Structured workout programs can help maintain fitness after 60
- Proper form and gradual progression are essential for injury prevention
- Combining cardio with strength training supports overall fitness
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining energy and recovery
From Setback to Comeback: A Journey to Lifelong Fitness
Paul Centonze's fitness journey began with adversity. At age 42, two car accidents left him with injuries that resulted in 52% disability according to his physical therapists. Rather than accepting this as his new normal, he made a decisive choice:
"After going to physical therapy for over a year, I was told that I was 52% disabled from my injuries. I made a choice then to join a gym, got a trainer, and worked on building my body back—better than before. Now at age 67, it has become a way of life."
Manual Treadmill Benefits for Seniors
Before discovering curved manual treadmills,Paul used traditional motorized equipment for his cardio training. His transition to the Aussie Pro Runner at age 60 while preparing for American Ninja Warrior revealed several advantages specific to older athletes:
"Once I ran on it, I could see the difference. The fact that my effort made the treadmill move instead of a motor pulling me made the workout more intense—and better than running on the ground."
What Sets the Aussie Pro Runner Apart
The Aussie Pro Runner offers several features particularly beneficial for senior athletes:
- Self-Powered Movement: Natural stride control creates a more engaging workout
- Adjustable Magnetic Resistance: Customizable intensity levels for progressive training
- Curved Design: Promotes proper running form and reduces joint impact
- Versatility: Supports both forward and backward walking for balanced training
- Low-Impact Exercise: Ideal for maintaining joint health while building cardiovascular fitness
Senior-Friendly Treadmill Workout Program
Paul's weekly routine demonstrates how to effectively incorporate manual treadmill training into a senior fitness program:
Monday: Interval Training (20 minutes)
- 2-minute walk
- 1-minute jog
- 20-second sprint
- Repeat cycle
Wednesday: Sprint Training
- Progressive sprint intervals (45, 30, 20, and 15 seconds)
- Recovery walks between sprints
- 3-minute cooldown
Friday: Endurance Focus (20 minutes)
- Steady-state jogging
- Focus on building VO2 Max
Essential Tips for Fitness After 60
Paul shares three fundamental principles that guide his fitness journey:
-
Make Health a Priority "The one thing I would offer to anyone at any age is to make your physical health a priority. A healthy body equals a healthy mind."
- Maintain Daily Movement Beyond treadmill sessions, a complete senior fitness routine should include:
- Daily 2-mile walks outdoors
- Regular weight training
- Bodyweight exercises
- Balance and mobility work
- Focus on Nutrition "You are what you eat. I stay away from processed foods, eat plenty of clean protein, and drink plenty of clean water."
Safety Considerations for Senior Athletes
When using manual treadmills, seniors should keep these important factors in mind:
- Start slowly and gradually increase intensity
- Maintain proper form throughout workouts
- Listen to your body and adjust workouts as needed
- Keep hydrated before, during, and after exercise
- Use appropriate footwear or train barefoot when comfortable
- Consider working with a certified fitness trainer initially
Training for Longevity: The Long-Term Approach
Success in senior fitness requires more than just equipment—it demands dedication, smart training choices, and proper recovery. While curved manual treadmills like the Aussie Pro Runner offer unique benefits, they're one part of a comprehensive approach to fitness that includes strength training, outdoor activity, and proper nutrition.
Benefits of Regular Exercise for Seniors
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Better balance and coordination
- Increased strength and muscle mass
- Enhanced mental well-being
- Greater independence in daily activities
- Reduced risk of falls and injuries
For those interested in exploring curved treadmill training, the Aussie Pro Runner offers a robust option with features designed for both beginners and experienced senior athletes.
Q&A with Paul Centonze
What inspired you to keep training and staying active beyond 60?
"When I was 42 years old, I was involved in two automobile accidents. After going to physical therapy for over a year, I was told that I was 52% disabled from my injuries. I made a choice then to join a gym and got a trainer and worked on building my body back better than before. Now at age 67, it has become a way of life."
How does the Aussie Pro Runner fit into your fitness routine?
"I use my Pro Runner three times a week for cardio work. I joined a gym when I was 60 because I was going to compete on American Ninja Warrior. I wanted to train with someone who could help me deal with the obstacles that they have on the course. This gym happened to have the Pro Runner treadmill, and once I ran on it, I could see the difference between this and a motorized treadmill."
What benefits have you noticed compared to traditional treadmills?
"The fact that my effort was what made the treadmill go versus being pulled by a motorized unit made the workout more intense and better than running on the ground. With the resistance adjustment, I can work on my strength and endurance. I also used the treadmill to walk backwards, which helps with mobility."
How does the curved design and self-powered nature help with low-impact training?
"I find the curved design makes my stride more fluent, and the fact that you, the runner, is what makes it go gives you a feeling of control. There's also the comfort of running barefoot on this treadmill because of the low impact. This is a game changer for me. I had issues with my feet from training for American Ninja Warrior because the shoes I wore to train were very tight and made my toes very close together. I've been using toe spacers and running barefoot now for almost a year."
Follow his journey here: https://www.instagram.com/rydalpauly/
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a manual treadmill suitable for seniors?
Yes, manual treadmills can be excellent for seniors when used properly, as they allow for natural pace control and provide low-impact exercise options.
How often should seniors use a manual treadmill?
Most seniors can safely use a manual treadmill 3-4 times per week, starting with shorter sessions and gradually increasing duration and intensity.
What are the advantages of curved treadmills for older adults?
Curved treadmills offer better control over pace, reduced joint impact, and more natural movement patterns compared to traditional treadmills.
Can seniors build strength using a manual treadmill?
Yes, especially with models like the Aussie Pro Runner that offer resistance settings and allow for both forward and backward walking.
Note: Individual results may vary. Consult with healthcare providers before starting any new exercise program, especially when recovering from injuries.
