At the age of 57, Jessie Kwong Shun-man was diagnosed with osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures. For Kwong, this meant frequent falls, leaving her with bruises and injuries. “I would be walking along a street and then just fall,” recalls Kwong, a retired Hong Kong government engineer.
Osteoporosis is caused by a decrease in bone density, making bones fragile and prone to fractures. Kwong’s diagnosis was particularly concerning as her mother had also suffered from the condition in her later years. The diagnosis prompted Kwong to reassess her lifestyle, realizing she had neglected her calcium intake and led a mostly sedentary life.
Rather than relying solely on medication, which comes with side effects like nausea and joint pain, Kwong chose to focus on weight-bearing exercises to strengthen her bones. She joined a gym but felt overwhelmed and out of place among fitness enthusiasts. Like many newcomers, she experienced “gymtimidation” until personal trainer Andy Yiu Chi-yau guided her through the process.
By setting small, achievable goals, Kwong built confidence and began seeing improvements in her strength, balance, and posture. Over time, her muscle mass increased, her body fat decreased, and she stopped experiencing falls. After three years of consistent weight training, her bone density had significantly improved, and her diagnosis of osteoporosis was reversed.
Motivated by her success, Kwong wanted to inspire others. In 2023, she and Yiu opened Why Not Fitness, a boutique gym in Wan Chai designed for older adults new to strength training. The gym focuses on low-impact strength exercises and personalized fitness programs tailored to each client’s needs.
At Why Not Fitness, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the gym provides a supportive environment for those navigating the challenges of aging. Kwong and her team work closely with physiotherapists to help clients transition from rehabilitation to strength-building. They also emphasize the importance of diet and nutrition, ensuring clients maintain a balanced intake of protein, carbs, and fats.
With the goal of encouraging more people to embrace weight training, Kwong and her team give talks at clubs and community centers, spreading awareness of the benefits of strength training for overall health and well-being. As Kwong says, “It’s never too late to start getting fit, no matter your age.”
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