Background

Gill Smulders is a testament to what it means to stay active and resilient in her 50s. Engaging in an array of physically demanding sports, she has mastered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, kite surfing, and rigorous conditioning routines. Her athletic journey reflects a passion for pushing her limits and maintaining peak fitness levels well into her 50s.

The Challenge

Despite years of training under different coaches, Gill found it increasingly challenging to find a coach who could meet her specific needs. She was looking for an approach that could not only push her limits but also keep her injury-free and allow her to continue enjoying her activities. As an older athlete, she needed to prioritise joint health, muscle strength, and injury prevention while still embracing the thrill and intensity of her sports.

Poseidon Performance’s Approach

When Gill began working with Poseidon Performance, Nicholas Martin-Jones took a holistic and individualized approach to her training. Understanding the unique demands of her sports, especially Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and kickboxing, he created a customised program that focused on building her strength, flexibility, and conditioning while ensuring proper recovery. The emphasis was not just on high-intensity workouts but also on mobility, stability, and overall physical resilience. This included integrating strength training tailored to her sports, dynamic warm-ups, and targeted conditioning exercises.

Nicholas recognised that for an athlete in her 50s, recovery and injury prevention were crucial components of success. He introduced mobility drills and recovery protocols to help Gill maintain joint health, optimise muscle recovery, and prevent potential injuries. This balanced approach ensured that she could train at her optimal level without compromising her long-term health.

The Results

Gill’s experience with Poseidon Performance was transformative. She found the right balance between challenging workouts and sustainable progress, allowing her to continue excelling in her athletic pursuits. Through Nicholas’s coaching, she not only pushed her limits in each session but also developed a newfound enjoyment in her training journey. Gill’s strength, flexibility, and endurance improved, directly benefiting her performance in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, and kite surfing.

Her testimonial sums up the experience:

“After many years of training with various coaches, I can honestly say that training with Nic from Poseidon Performance has been an outstanding experience. He manages to meet the balance needed to keep you training at your optimal while still enjoying the experience. Always challenging but always fun and interesting sums up his sessions. Highly recommended.”

Key Takeaways

1. Balanced Approach: Training in your 50s requires a well-rounded approach that balances intensity with recovery and injury prevention.

2. Tailored Programs: Gill’s journey illustrates the importance of a tailored training program that addresses the unique demands of different sports, focusing on both performance and long-term health.

3. Enjoying the Process: The right coaching can make workouts not just effective but also enjoyable, helping athletes maintain their passion and commitment to fitness.

A Message for Older Athletes

Gill’s case exemplifies how age should never be a barrier to athleticism. With the right guidance and training philosophy, it’s possible to continue thriving in sports you love. Whether you’re a martial artist, a surfer, or a fitness enthusiast, focusing on a comprehensive approach that includes strength, conditioning, mobility, and recovery can help you stay strong and active for life.

Poseidon Performance: Your Partner in Longevity

Gill’s story is one of many that showcase how Poseidon Performance helps older athletes maintain their peak performance. If you’re ready to redefine what athleticism looks like in your 50s and beyond, Poseidon Performance offers personalised training designed to keep you strong, resilient, and ready for any physical challenge.

For more inspiration, follow Gill’s fitness journey on her Instagram: my.bright.life.