Now is the season for homegrown tomatoes and peaches, and if you’ve never tried the two together, you’re in for a treat. This simple salad, adapted from a recipe by Bill Smith in Southern Living, has all the flavors of a BLT without the bread, with a surprise burst of tangy sweetness that brings out the best in the tomatoes. If you don’t eat bacon, feel free to use a plant-based substitute or use sliced, toasted almonds instead. Serves 4-6. – Susan Puckett

Dressing:

• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, marjoram, or parsley, plus more for garnish
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Salad:

• 4 to 6 medium-sized firm ripe peaches, unpeeled
• 1 to 1 ½ pounds mixed cherry and beefsteak heirloom tomatoes (or any ripe summer tomato)
• 4 ounces baby arugula or Little Gem lettuce
• 8 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled (about 1 cup), or plant-based substitute
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

1. Make the dressing: At least 30 minutes (or up to 2 days ahead) before serving, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, and yogurt in a small bowl until well combined. Stir in the herbs. Cover and refrigerate until chilled.
2. Meanwhile, make the salad: Slice the peaches into ½ to 1-inch wedges. (These can be covered and chilled up to a day ahead of time.) Just before serving, slice the beefsteak tomatoes into ½- to 1-inch wedges and cut the cherry tomatoes in half. Sprinkle the tomatoes evenly with the remaining salt and set aside. 
3. Assemble the salads: Divide the lettuce evenly among 4 to 6 plates. Arrange the tomatoes and peaches on top of the lettuce. Sprinkle with the bacon. Drizzle each salad with 2 tablespoons of dressing and garnish with additional herbs, if desired. Serve immediately with the remaining dressing on the side.  

Susan Puckett is an Atlanta-based food writer and cookbook author.

Interested in changing your life for the better? 

Join our 21-Day Strength and Balance program to rediscover everything you’re still capable of! Sign up here: https://go.ypbtrainingstudio.com/21-day-longevity-and-strength-program.

Darlene Sims’s doctor recently told her she was on the verge of developing type 2 diabetes and should start taking medication.

Darlene, a 58-year-old educator, said No way.

“I convinced my doctor to give me six months to take care of this through diet and exercise,” says Darlene. “And I’m getting there.”

Darlene’s fitness journey is just beginning. However, it is one that many people can relate to after the age of 50, 60, or 70.

She wasn’t familiar with fitness, having devoted herself to family and career for decades.

But then came that catalyst, the warning from her doctor, and Darlene’s strong reaction against being dependent on medication when she could do something about it, instead.

This kind of event is common later in life. Maybe you’ve experienced something like it.

• You get winded just walking to the mailbox.
• You can’t travel in retirement like you’d dreamed because you’re overweight and out of shape.
• You can’t get on the floor and play with your grandkids.

It’s after this sad realization that many of us do what Darlene did.

We say, “No way.”

She’s Not Alone
According to a 2022 AARP survey, 75% of adults over 50 report wanting to stay healthy and independent for as long as possible, and more than half express concern about losing mobility and strength as they age.

At the same time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 4 in 5 older adults have at least one chronic health condition. Many of them are preventable or manageable through exercise and nutrition.

For many people, the turning point comes clearly, and they become determined to feel better, avoid medication, stay active, and enjoy life.

However, many older adults, like Darlene, don’t know where to start. They feel intimidated by traditional gyms, unsure of what exercises are safe, or discouraged by fitness marketing that seems aimed at younger people.

That’s why we create welcoming spaces, inclusive programming, and positive messaging that supports people in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond. It helps more people like Darlene say, “No way,” and start making meaningful changes on their terms, in their time.

She’s on the Move Now
Since that visit to the doctor, Darlene has begun walking, aiming for the coveted 10,000 steps a day.
She took her first Pilates class in the park near her home.

And she was beaming after her first yoga class, also outdoors, in her townhome community.

She tried a big-box gym but doesn’t like it much, preferring coaching and structure as a newbie.

“I prefer to be outdoors rather than in a gym,” she says. “I’m just trying to figure out something I like that doesn’t feel like a chore. I’m figuring myself out.”

Now, that sounds like a terrific project for anyone at any age. Here’s to finding yourself and improving your health and fitness! Call us today to get started on your path now.

Join our 21-Day Strength and Balance program to rediscover everything you’re still capable of!Sign up here:https://go.ypbtrainingstudio.com/21-day-longevity-and-strength-program

Sometimes, we might struggle to fall asleep due to stiff joints or tight muscles. We might wake up with aches in our hips, back, or feet.

A few simple bedtime habits can lead to significant improvement.

“Many of the people I work with just assume pain at night is part of aging,” physical therapist Shayna Gross says. “But often, it’s about how you prepare your body for sleep.”

Here are her top three tips to reduce pain and improve your sleep:

1. Stretch Your Hips and Lower Back
Gentle stretches, such as a figure-four or child’s pose, can help loosen tight muscles and ease joint tension. Just a few minutes before bed can go a long way.

2. Roll Your Feet on a Ball
Use a lacrosse ball, a massage ball, or even a tennis ball. This stimulates your fascia (connective tissue) and can help calm your nervous system, promoting a more relaxed whole body.

3. Adjust Your Pillow Placement
Support your joints while you sleep. Try placing a pillow between your knees if you’re a side sleeper, behind your back for support, or under your ankles to reduce strain on your lower body.

“Small movements can lead to better rest and less pain in the morning,” Shayna says.

Keep moving throughout the day and include resistance training if you really want to move, feel, and look better.

Interested in changing your life for the better? 

Join our 21-Day Strength and Balance program to rediscover everything you’re still capable of!

Sign up here: https://go.ypbtrainingstudio.com/21-day-longevity-and-strength-program.

Summer’s here — and while the sunshine lifts our spirits and invites us outdoors, it’s also a time to stay smart about our health and safety.
 
Here’s a refresher on staying safe, strong, and comfortable all season long.
 
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.
Drink plenty of water — even before you feel thirsty. Dehydration can sneak up on you in the heat, especially during outdoor activities. Aim for 0.5 to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight. Add fruit or cucumber slices to a pitcher for a refreshing twist.
 
Time your activity wisely.
Early morning or late evening is best for gardening, walking, or other physical activity. Avoid the midday heat whenever possible. If you’re outside, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and a hat, and don’t forget the sunscreen — SPF 30 to 50, broad-spectrum, and reapplied often.
 
Know the warning signs.
Watch for dizziness, nausea, fatigue, or cramps — signs of heat exhaustion that can lead to heat stroke. If you feel unwell, stop and cool down right away.
 
Win the mosquito battle.
Empty standing water around the yard and use repellents approved by the CDC. Yellow-tinted bulbs attract fewer bugs for outdoor lighting.
 
Eat fresh, sleep well, and go easy on alcohol.
Summer produce is at its peak — enjoy it! And rest is essential, especially during extreme heat.
 
We’re here to help.
Our gym is cool, safe, and welcoming all summer long. Come in, cool down, and keep moving!

Fitness over 50 knows no boundaries. Let’s get it! 

At Your Personal Best Training Studio, our Functional Aging Specialists will improve your balance, functional strength, and endurance. 

Start now by trying our 21-Day Longevity and Strength Program.

We’re six months into 2025. That might bring one of two reactions to your fitness goals:

1.“Wow, I’m crushing it.”

2.“Wait… wasn’t I going to finally start [fill in the blank]?”

Whichever one sounds like you, here’s the good news:

It’s not too late. Not even close.

Now is the perfect time to reset or recommit, whether you’re building on a strong first half or just now ready to make a change. 

Here are 25 simple, powerful things anyone can do to live a healthier, more energetic second half of the year.

Pick a few. Or try them all.

25 Steps to a Healthier You

1. Move every day. It doesn’t have to be at the gym. Walk the dog, dance in the kitchen, stretch before bed. Just move.
2. Limit calories if you’re trying to lose weight. Calories in vs. calories out. It is that simple.
3. More fruits and veggies, less candy and chips.
4. More lean protein, fewer candy bars and donuts.
5. More water, less alcohol and soda (yes, even diet).
6. Lift weights. People over 50 should strength train 2–3 times a week.
7. Don’t eat in front of the TV. Mindless eating = more eating.
8. Consider hiring a trainer. It’s not just for athletes. It’s for anyone who wants support, accountability, and results. Talk to us about options.
9. Or enroll in small-group personal training. Built-in motivation and community.
10. Discuss your goals with your trainer. Want to hike with your grandkids? Travel with ease? Be specific.
11. Also, share your concerns. A good trainer can adapt to injuries, health conditions, or confidence levels.
12. Tell your loved ones you love them. Every day.
13. Meditate, pray, or practice mindfulness. Even a few minutes helps.
14. Do the thing. Yes, that thing you’ve been avoiding.
15. Focus on losing fat, not just weight. Strength and body composition are better measures of health than the scale.
16. Sleep well. Recovery is where the magic happens.
17. Remember, exercise is the miracle drug. It helps every system in your body — and your brain, too.
18. Practice gratitude. Every day you can move is a gift.
19. Remember, exercise is fun. Or at least it can be! Try new things, find your joy.
20. Get outside. Sunshine, fresh air, nature — they do a body (and mind) good.
21. Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially in summer.
22. Read a book. And take a break from doomscrolling for a bit.
23. How do you? You’re the expert on your own life. Trust that.
24. Schedule your workouts like any necessary appointment because they are.
25. Don’t go it alone. Partner up, join a group, talk to us. You’re not in this by yourself.

We’re here when you’re ready, whether that means answering a question, showing you around, or helping you take that first step, or your hundredth.

Make this your healthiest year yet. You’ve still got plenty of time. Call us today!

Interested in changing your life for the better? Join our 21-Day Strength and Balance program to rediscover everything you’re still capable of! Learn more here: 21-Day Longevity and Strength Program.

Want to know the secret to long-term fitness success after 50?

It’s not willpower. Not motivation. Not even the perfect workout plan.

It’s consistency.

Study after study shows that people who stay active as they age aren’t necessarily doing the most intense workouts or spending the most time at the gym. They’re the ones who show up regularly, week after week, year after year.

And consistency doesn’t mean perfection. Life happens. You miss a workout, take a vacation, or get sidelined by injury. What matters most is your ability to get back on track and keep moving forward.
That steady, repeated effort leads to powerful outcomes:

• Stronger muscles and bones
• Better balance and mobility
• Reduced risk of chronic disease
• Improved cognitive function
• And yes, longer life

A 2023 study in JAMA Network Open found that people who engaged in regular moderate-to-vigorous activity had up to a 39% lower risk of early death compared to their less active peers. And the key variable? Not intensity. Frequency.

So don’t worry about doing everything perfectly. Focus on doing something consistently.
Start small. Build routines. Celebrate the habit, not just the outcome.

Because when it comes to aging well, the most critical exercise is the one you’ll keep doing.

If you’re ready to create a personalized plan that’s meaningful enough to stick to, especially when the going gets tough, we’re here to help.

In our 21-Day Longevity and Strength Program, we’ll work together to ensure you’re not just “going through the motions” to hit your goals but living a life that aligns with your values.

Sign up here: https://go.ypbtrainingstudio.com/21-day-longevity-and-strength-program.

When 77-year-old Jeannie Rice ran a 1:41 half-marathon in April, fitness experts took notice.

Test results showed she’s as fit as a typical 25-year-old, despite having started running only in her 30s. 

This demonstrates what’s possible with consistent effort, innovative training, and understanding some key predictors of health and longevity, even if you never plan to run a marathon.

Three of the most potent indicators of longevity and health span are Grip strength, balance, and VO₂ max. These simple tests provide a snapshot of how well your body is aging, and this information can help you improve.

1. VO₂ Max (Maximal Oxygen Uptake)
Have you heard about VO₂ Max yet?

It’s trendy in athletics and media, but it’s not just for elite athletes.

VO₂ Max tells us how efficiently your body uses oxygen, and it’s one of the strongest predictors of longevity.
The higher your score, the longer and healthier you’re likely to live.

It shows how efficiently your body uses oxygen during exercise. Dr. Peter Attia (author of “Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity”) and others in the longevity field emphasize that improving your VO₂ max can cut your risk of death by more than 50%. That’s a bigger impact than quitting smoking or lowering blood pressure.

You can get tested at a physical therapist’s office or another medical or research facility. Talk to your doctor for more information. It involves a treadmill or cycle test with oxygen analysis, although there are some DIY versions available, and some smartwatches provide decent estimates.

You can improve with consistent cardio training. Even moderate improvements can add years to your life.

2. Grip Strength
Grip strength is about more than opening jars. It’s a proven predictor of health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, disability, and even mortality. Weaker grip strength is associated with a higher risk of early death, according to research in The Lancet.

To test, use a handheld dynamometer that some gyms and clinics have. Men should weigh more than 28 kg, and women, 18 kg.

What helps? Forearm exercises include farmer’s carries, dead hangs, and dumbbell holds. Grip strength tends to improve quickly with focused effort. Talk to us for more information.

3. Balance
Balance is linked to overall vitality, not just falls. The “sitting-rising test” measures how easily you can sit down on the floor and stand back up without using your hands or knees. A score below 8 (out of 10) has been linked to a higher risk of early death, according to The European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.

Try the sitting-rising test, or simply time how long you can stand on one foot. Less than 10 seconds might be cause for attention.

You can work on your balance with single-leg exercises, tai chi, and core stability training.

These tests assess your heart-lung fitness, aerobic endurance, strength and vitality, as well as stability and nervous system function.

And what gets measured can get better! See us to learn more about how your fitness can improve and extend your healthspan.

If you’re over 50, stuck in a health rut, and ready to feel like yourself again, our team of functional aging specialists knows precisely what you need to get your health and fitness back on track. 
Interested in changing your life for the better? 

Join our 21-Day Strength and Balance program to rediscover everything you’re still capable of!

Learn More Here: https://go.ypbtrainingstudio.com/21-day-longevity-and-strength-program.

Back pain is one of the most common health complaints, particularly after the age of 50. But a significant new study shows that something as simple as walking can help prevent it.

In research published in JAMA Network Open, scientists followed more than 31,000 adults for over four years. They found that people who walked at least 125 minutes per day lowered their risk of developing chronic low back pain by 23%. Even those who walked 100 minutes per day saw significant benefits.

That might sound like a lot of time devoted to walking! However, the good news is that any increase in walking appears to be beneficial. You don’t have to hit 100 or 125 minutes a day to start seeing progress. Just walking a little more each day — even 10- to 15-minute blocks — can make a difference over time.

Walking helps keep muscles loose, strengthens the back and core, improves circulation, aids in weight management, and reduces stress — all of which contribute to preventing back pain.

If you’re already experiencing back pain, consult your doctor or a fitness coach before starting any new exercise routine. But for prevention? A simple daily walk is one of the easiest, safest, and most effective steps you can take.

Are you tired of relying on others to do everyday activities? Our team of functional aging specialists will support and train you in strength and balance, enabling you to regain your independence. 

We help men and women over 50 feel better, look better, and age actively- because our life isn’t over as we age; in many ways, it’s just beginning!

Interested in changing your life for the better? 

Join our 21-Day Strength and Balance program to rediscover everything you’re still capable of! Sign up here:https://go.ypbtrainingstudio.com/21-day-longevity-and-strength-program.

Laughter really is good for us. So, in honor of the dads out there, let’s take a moment to enjoy a few groaners.

Why did the personal trainer break up with the treadmill? It just wasn’t going anywhere.

Why don’t skeletons ever go to the gym? They don’t have the guts.

The dad said he didn’t want to brag, but he’d been hired as a fitness model. “They’re using me for the ‘before’ pictures.”

What’s a weightlifter’s favorite type of music? Heavy metal.

Some dads work out religiously. Yep, once or twice around the holidays.

Why did the tomato turn red at the gym? It saw the salad dressing!

Why do dads love protein shakes? Because whey too much is never enough.

My wife says I’m getting fat, but in my defense… I’ve had a lot on my plate lately.

Why don’t eggs lift weights? They might crack under pressure.

Why did the dad bring a ladder to the gym? Because he was ready to take his fitness to the next level.

What’s a dad’s favorite gym machine? The vending machine.

Why did the salad go to the gym? It wanted to romaine strong.

The next Harry Potter story will be set in the gym, where wizards can lift weights. The entrance is called the Dumbbell Door.

What’s it called when a rapper goes to the gym for 20 minutes? A Lil Pump.

Fitness over 50 knows no boundaries. Let’s get it! 

At Your Personal Best Training Studio, our Functional Aging Specialists will improve your balance, functional strength, and endurance. 

Start now by trying our 21-Day Longevity and Strength Program.

So don’t just get dad, grandpa, your husband, or partner another tie. 

Instead, see what you can do to encourage his health and fitness.

• Does he have a favorite sport and need new supplies?
• Are you trying to get him off the couch and into our gym?
• Maybe he’s curious about that cryo-cold, red-light thing he keeps hearing about.

Here are some ideas to get your mind flowing. Contact us to learn how we can help.

1. Massage or Spa Gift Card
   Help him recover and relax. Deep-tissue massage, sports massage, or even a full spa day can ease sore muscles, reduce stress, and improve sleep. And if he’s never tried a facial or mani-pedi, open his eyes!
2. Cold Plunge or Cryotherapy Session
   Cold immersion is popular for reducing inflammation, boosting circulation, and improving resilience. Many wellness centers now offer walk-in sessions, and there are even franchises all over.
3. Yoga or Stretch Class Pass
   Gentle mobility work helps prevent injury, relieve joint pain, and improve balance, especially valuable after 50. A beginner-friendly yoga or stretching class is a thoughtful way to support longevity, and perhaps even get him started on some healthier habits.
4. Red Light Therapy
   Whether it’s to ease joint pain, support skin health, or reduce inflammation, red light therapy has become popular for its recovery benefits.  It might not be right for your guy. But if he’s curious, this could be a nudge toward trying it out.
5. Good Trail Shoes
   A good pair of supportive, comfortable shoes encourages more daily movement, whether for neighborhood walks or weekend hikes. Foot health is crucial for maintaining good gait, posture, and overall body wellness. As Cary Grant used to say, “Don’t go cheap on shoes.” (We might be paraphrasing.)
6. Pickleball Gear
   Consider a starter set that includes a paddle, balls, and court shoes — or opt for lessons. If he’s already into it, then he probably has a wish list of accessories.
7. Smartwatch or Fitness Tracker
   It’s come so far, so fast! You can track heart rate, sleep, and VO2 max to support long-term health goals.
8. Golf Balls or Lesson Package
   He might be a seasoned golfer, or maybe he’s new to it. Either way, new balls or private lessons could keep him on the links and having fun outdoors.
9. Strength Training Package 
   A personalized gift card or intro offer to small-group or semi-private training, especially with us, where we know how to provide top-tier experiences for people over 50, can be a life-changing experience.
10. Healthy Snack or Supplement Subscription
    A monthly box of high-protein snacks, sugar-free treats, or essentials like collagen or omega-3 fatty acids can help him stay on track with his nutrition.

And, finally, don’t forget the basics, like sweat-wicking socks, T-shirts, and shorts. See us today and let’s get him on his feet.

Men and Women over 50, bring your parents and let us improve your quality of life by restoring your strength, improving your balance, & reducing your joint pain. 

Try our 21-Day Longevity and Strength Program to enjoy your favorite activities with your parents for years to come.