YouAgeWell: Empowering Healthy Ageing through Evidence-Based Exercise. Written by James Timmons.
My Background: I have always been passionate about exercise's role in enhancing the quality of life, particularly as we age. My academic journey began with a BSc in Sports and Exercise Science, followed by an MSc in Strength and Conditioning, then a PhD focusing on exercise and nutrition strategies for older adults. Over the years, I have dedicated my career to understanding how physical activity can combat age-related decline. This passion for improving the health span of ageing populations led me to establish Youagewell.
In my current role as an Assistant Professor at University College Dublin (UCD), I teach modules such as "Exercise is Medicine," where I explore how physical activity can serve as preventive medicine. My research and teaching focus on how exercise can improve health outcomes, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and maintain functional independence as we age. Alongside my academic work, I lead Youagewell, an online membership based programme that helps individuals aged 50 and over maintain their health, fitness, and quality of life through structured, evidence-based exercise.
The Role
At Youagewell our mission is simple yet profound: to match people’s health span with their lifespan. We aim to enable people to live healthier, more active lives through a combination of medically-led exercise programmes that are rooted in scientific research. Our goal is to help individuals move better, feel better, and live better as they age.
Our unique online platform offers members a comprehensive and tailored experience designed to support long-term health and fitness. Key features of our programme include:
Three Weekly Small-Group Exercise Classes: These sessions focus on strength training, cardiovascular fitness, mobility, and flexibility. Each class is structured to address the specific needs of older adults, ensuring exercises are both safe and effective.
A Personalised Approach: We believe in the power of personalisation. Our members receive individual feedback in each session, allowing them to optimise their performance while ensuring exercises are performed safely.
Access to a Video Library: In addition to live classes, members have access to a library of video tutorials and exercise techniques that they can practise at their own pace.
24-Hour Access to Coaches: Our coaches are available round the clock to answer any queries or concerns. This continuous support ensures that members always feel guided and encouraged.
Community Support: One of the most valuable aspects of Youagewell is the sense of community we foster. Our members connect with like-minded individuals who share similar health goals, offering each other motivation and support on their journey to healthier ageing.
What Sets YouAgeWell Apart
At youagewell, we understand that ageing brings unique challenges. Our programmes are specifically tailored for individuals over 50, addressing key issues such as:
Decreased Muscle Mass, Strength & Function: We incorporate resistance training to prevent sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass, which is crucial for maintaining functional independence.
Reduced Flexibility and Mobility: Flexibility and balance exercises help maintain range of motion, prevent falls, and promote better posture, all of which are essential for daily life activities.
Chronic Disease Management: Many of our members live with conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease. Our programmes are designed to not only accommodate these conditions but also to help manage and improve them through regular physical activity.
Our evidence-based approach ensures that every programme is informed by the latest scientific research. Having published multiple studies on the impact of exercise on ageing, I apply the principles of strength and conditioning, combined with insights from current research, to create fitness plans that are not only effective but also enjoyable.
Impact and Testimonials
Our members consistently report improvements in their physical well-being after joining Youagewell. One long-standing client shared their experience:
"When I joined YouAgeWell, I had struggled with strength and flexibility after developing type 1 diabetes. Through personalised coaching and the supportive environment, I was able to rebuild my physical confidence. I now feel stronger, have more energy, and am far more active than I ever thought possible at my age."
Feedback like this is a testament to our programme’s ability to transform lives. Many members report increased energy levels, better balance, and improved overall health, which positively impacts their quality of life and confidence in day-to-day activities.
Advice for Aspiring Exercise Professionals
If you are considering a career in exercise science or health coaching, particularly with ageing populations, my advice is to approach it with both scientific rigour and compassion. Working with older adults requires a deep understanding of the physiological changes that come with ageing, but it also demands a personal touch—empathy, patience, and the ability to foster a trusting relationship with clients.
Here are a few key points of advice for anyone looking to enter this rewarding field:
Stay Rooted in Science: As exercise science continues to evolve, it is critical to remain informed about the latest research. Whether you're working with clinical populations or general fitness clients, offering evidence-based programmes is the best way to ensure effective and safe outcomes.
Embrace Continuous Learning: The field of exercise science is dynamic, with new studies and techniques emerging regularly. Whether through academic research, attending conferences, or pursuing further qualifications, staying ahead of these developments is key to maintaining relevance and effectiveness in your practice.
Foster a People-Centred Approach: While the science is essential, your clients are real people with individual needs, limitations, and goals. Tailoring your approach to each person, showing understanding of their circumstances, and providing consistent support can make all the difference.
Communication is Crucial: Working with older adults, in particular, requires clear, empathetic communication. They may face physical or emotional barriers to exercise, and it is your role to help them feel comfortable, supported, and motivated. Building trust is fundamental.
Whether you aspire to teach or research at a university, work as a personal trainer, or run your own business like Youagewell combining expertise with genuine care and compassion is the foundation of success in this field.
Conclusion
At Youagewell, we believe that ageing is not a barrier to fitness—it is an opportunity. Through scientifically-supported, personalised exercise programmes, we are helping adults over 50 take control of their health and live fuller, more active lives. By focusing on evidence-based practice, fostering community support, and offering personalised coaching, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of our members, one step at a time.
If you are interested in learning more or joining our programme, visit www.youagewell.com today to start your journey towards healthier ageing.
