At 71, I’m a fitness coach. Here’s the workout I swear by for strength and mobility

At 71, fitness expert Nate Wilkins proves that age doesnโ€™t limit strength. The Senior Planet Sponsored Athlete shares his simple, bodyweight workout to boost mobility

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At 71, Nate Wilkins proves that strength, confidence, and movement are ageless pursuits. A personal trainer, Senior Planet Sponsored Athlete, and co-creator of the AgelessWorkout Method, Nate is redefining how older adults approach fitness and longevity.

โ€œMy mission has always been to design a simple, sustainable approach that helps aging adultsโ€”especially menโ€”reclaim their mobility, manage pain, and rediscover their confidence,โ€ Nate told Tomโ€™s Guide. โ€œIn my seventies, Iโ€™m proud to say Iโ€™m fitter than ever. Consistency, smart recovery, and a positive mindset keep me going. My purpose drives my training, my community keeps me accountable, and the results motivate me every day.โ€

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For those seeking workout inspiration, Nate shared his favorite strength and mobility routine โ€” a series heโ€™s followed for years to stay fit, flexible, and full of energy. โ€œThis workout has kept me ready for anything life throws my way,โ€ he said.

A U.S. Navy veteran turned fitness advocate, Nateโ€™s journey began after a major health scare prompted him to lose 50 pounds and reevaluate his life. His experience inspired the creation of the AgelessWorkout Method โ€” a program designed to help people, especially those managing chronic conditions, rediscover vitality and self-belief.

What is the workout?

โ€œI came up with this after my own health struggles,โ€ Nate explained. โ€œI needed a workout that was simple but effective โ€” something I could do anywhere, anytime, and still get results.โ€

As a 2025 Senior Planet / AARP Sponsored Athlete, Nate views this workout as more than a physical routine โ€” itโ€™s a lifestyle philosophy. โ€œItโ€™s about sustainable fitness. Whether youโ€™re 40 or 70, it adapts to your needs,โ€ he said.

All you need to get started is your bodyweight. If you want to challenge yourself further, try adding a resistance band around your legs or use a pair of adjustable dumbbells.

Dynamic warm-up

  • March or perform high knees to elevate your heart rate
  • Roll your shoulders backward and forward to loosen tension

The circuit

  • 10โ€“15 bodyweight squats to strengthen your legs
  • 10โ€“15 wall push-ups to engage your chest, arms, and core
  • 10โ€“15 hip hinges to support lower-back health and glute strength
  • 30 seconds of standing knee lifts for coordination and balance
  • 8โ€“10 step-backs or modified lunges to build stability

Cool down

  • Gentle stretching to release tight muscles
  • Slow, mindful breathing to bring your heart rate down

โ€œI usually finish in about 15โ€“20 minutes,โ€ Nate said. โ€œSome days I only do one round; other times, I go for three and add resistance bands. I let my body guide me. The point is to stay consistent.โ€

For Nate, every session is an investment in long-term health. โ€œThis workout isnโ€™t just about staying in shape now,โ€ he explained. โ€œItโ€™s about building the strength, balance, and flexibility Iโ€™ll need for decades to come.โ€

Follow Tomโ€™s Guide on Google News for the latest fitness advice, training tips, and gear reviews.

Jane McGuire, Fitness Editor at Tomโ€™s Guide, has been reviewing running gear, workout equipment, and wellness tech for more than five years. When sheโ€™s not testing the latest fitness products, sheโ€™s exploring the Surrey Hills with her dog and a camera in hand.

This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies.

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