Getting Fit at 68: Eunice's Story of Resilience through Medical Fitness
In this article
- How is Medical Fitness Different From Regular Exercise?
- Is it Too Late to Get Healthy?
- What Are the Benefits of Medical Fitness?
- Is Medical Fitness Only for People With Health Conditions?
- What are Realistic Fitness Goals?
- Next Steps
- Hear Eunice Neal's Story
1. How is Medical Fitness Different From Regular Exercise?
Medical fitness combines exercise with professional healthcare oversight. Unlike traditional gyms, Cone Health Sagewell Health & Fitness includes trained staff such as physical therapists and medically-informed trainers who can safely address pain, injuries, or chronic conditions.
"If you're working out and you have an ache or a pain, I have a doctor right here that I can take you to," explains Bradley Huff, a personal trainer at Sagewell Health & Fitness Eden. "If I can't answer the question, they will. If they can't answer the question, we have the entire Cone Health network at our disposal."
If you're recovering from surgery or illness, you don't have to feel hesitant about getting moving again. The team at Sagewell Health & Fitness coordinates directly with your healthcare providers.
"We do what we call a ‘warm handoff,’” says Bradley, "where the doctor of physical therapy will give us specific notes. It's not like [patients] are getting kicked out. The [provider] who treated them is right there. They're well taken care of."
This “warm handoff” ensures your exercise plan is safe, personalized, and aligned with your recovery goals.
2. Is it Too Late to Get Healthy?
Absolutely not! Eunice Neal began her journey at 68 years old. After losing her husband, Bo, of 48 years, last October, Eunice set out to start a healthier, longer life. "I'm alive now for my children, three daughters and nine grandchildren."
In January, Eunice became a member at Sagewell Health & Fitness Eden. "First time I came on the treadmill, I couldn't talk," she recalls. She also remembers feeling winded after taking out the trash. Now, those are just memories.
Within four months of starting her fitness journey, Eunice could exercise for an hour straight, proving that it’s never too late to improve your health.
"I got more energy, I can breathe better," she says (while on the treadmill!)
3. What Are the Benefits of Medical Fitness?
Members often see measurable progress, whether it’s weight loss, improved balance, or increased endurance. Medical fitness can:
- Improve breathing
- Reduce pain
- Enhance mobility
- Increase energy
- Boost self-esteem
- Reduce stress
Research suggests that even simple activities like walking can significantly extend life expectancy. Regular movement helps counteract the natural slowing and stiffening of the body as we age.
4. Is Medical Fitness Only for People With Health Conditions?
No. Medical fitness is for everyone! While specialized support can offer prescribed exercises for those with medical concerns, Sagewell Health & Fitness also provides:
- General fitness training
- Weight loss programs
- Strength building
- Nutrition guidance
Many people assume medical fitness is limited or less intense than a traditional gym. In reality, it offers the same—if not better—equipment, classes, and training options, along with expert supervision.
5. What are Realistic Fitness Goals?
Sustainable results come from gradual progress. Quick fixes often don’t last, but consistent, small improvements over time lead to lasting health benefits.
In order to stay motivated, accountability and community are key. Encouragement from trainers and fellow participants, along with celebrating small wins, can help maintain motivation and consistency.
Next Steps
The best first step is simply showing up.
Fill out an interest form, give us a call, or visit in person to speak with one of our friendly membership specialists who can provide a tour and answer all your questions. Call 336-951-6924. Money-Back Guarantee. Join now. Try Sagewell for three days. Not a fit? Cancel for a full refund.
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Eunice's Story
Watch the full WFMY 2 Your Well-Being conversation with Antonio Cervantes, Health Fitness Specialist and Bradley Huff, Personal Trainer, with Cone Health Sagewell Health & Fitness Eden, in this WFMY 2 Your Well-Being conversation. below.
