At 72, Penny Decided to Start: Why It’s Never Too Late for Strength Training

Starting a fitness routine can feel intimidating at any age—but for many adults in their 60s and 70s, it can feel downright overwhelming.

That was exactly how Penny Hackett, age 72, felt before walking through the doors at Adam Clark Fitness.

Penny knew she needed to make a change. Her doctor had recommended regular exercise due to type 2 diabetes and heart disease, but knowing you should exercise and actually finding a place that feels safe, supportive, and realistic are two very different things.

Before starting, Penny had a lot of very common concerns:

• Would she be able to do the workouts?
• Would she be the oldest person there?
• Would it feel intimidating or overwhelming?
• Would she enjoy it enough to stick with it?

These are the same worries we hear every week from people searching for personal training in Brewer, Maine and the surrounding Bangor area—especially adults over 60.

Starting With a Conversation, Not a Workout

Instead of jumping straight into a workout, Penny scheduled a conversation with our team.

We talked through her health history, her goals, and what she needed to feel comfortable and confident. There was no pressure—just listening, education, and honest guidance.

A few days later, Penny came back for her Starting Point Session to see if Adam Clark Fitness was the right fit.

It was.

Five Weeks Later: Stronger, More Confident, More Energized

Penny has now been training three days per week for five weeks, and strength training is no longer something she’s worried about—it’s part of her routine.

She’s:

• Stronger
• More mobile
• More energized
• More confident in her body

Every session is personalized to her needs, abilities, and goals. She’s supported by a coach who meets her where she’s at and helps her feel safe and capable every step of the way.

Here’s what Penny shared in her Google review:

“This has been one of the absolute best things I have ever done for myself! I’m feeling stronger and more energized than I have in a long time. Each workout is specialized for me and the trainer works with me and assists with any questions or concerns I might have. It’s a truly amazing experience for me and I highly recommend it!”

You Don’t Need to Be “In Shape” to Start

Penny’s story is a powerful reminder that:

• You don’t need to be fit to begin
• You don’t need to know what you’re doing
• You don’t need to push yourself to extremes

You just need the right environment, the right coaching, and a plan that fits your life.

At Adam Clark Fitness, we specialize in strength training for adults 40+, 50+, and 60+. Our focus isn’t quick fixes—it’s helping people move better, feel stronger, and stay independent for years to come.

And Penny?

She’s officially a gym regular—and we couldn’t be more proud.

If you’ve ever felt unsure, out of place, or worried you wouldn’t fit in, Penny’s story might sound familiar.

And it might just be your sign.