Building Smarter Workouts

Behind the Scenes:
How StrongerLife Builds Smarter Workouts

Ever wonder how each StrongerLife workout seems to hit the perfect balance—challenging, safe, and somehow even fun? The secret isn’t luck or guesswork. It’s the result of a carefully coordinated process led by our Physical Therapist, Dr. Laura Howard, and our Head Coach, Amy Dalibor. Together, they ensure that every class at StrongerLife isn’t just a workout—it’s a program with purpose.

Step 1: Write the Script

Each new four-week cycle begins with Dr. Howard establishing developmental objectives that build on the previous cycle. Each week has a different emphasis, whether that be full body strength and power, or endurance, balance and coordination.  Then, we build that out over the course of 4 weeks, adapting this “template” every 4 weeks. Most recently we have moved our strength days around so that one week you will see them on MWF and the next on TTh.. The goal is to create ongoing progress without over-repetition or fatigue.

Step 2: Build the Blueprint

From there, Laura and Amy assemble daily workouts that intentionally combine movements targeting strength, endurance, balance, mobility, and cognitive function. Every rep, time sequence, and transition is chosen to help members counter common effects of aging—like loss of muscle mass, slower reaction times, decreased cardiovascular output, or balance challenges. Safety is the foundation; results are the reward.

Step 3: Design for Real People

Next, rep schemes and time sequences are developed to challenge members appropriately while maintaining safety for every fitness level. This is where science meets member care—pushing limits, but always within the guardrails of smart programming. Our coaches are there to adjust and adapt each workout and each movement for YOU. We emphasize good form and safe lifting techniques, helping reduce the risk of working outside of your capacity!

Step 4: Add the StrongerLife Touch

Of course, StrongerLife isn’t just about movement—it’s about community. Every cycle includes games, conversation starters, and weekly BetterLife Profiles that turn classes into shared experiences. Our workouts train your body; our community strengthens your spirit.

From Programming to Practice

Once the program is finalized, Coach Amy steps in. She translates Laura’s evidence-based design into real-world coaching through daily training videos and team briefings. Amy ensures that every coach understands not only what movements we’re doing, but why—and how to deliver them safely and effectively.

Before each week begins, Laura and Amy brief the coaching team to review key coaching points, discuss what to watch for during classes, and outline appropriate modifications. All our coaches have been trained on and ongoing access to a comprehensive movement library that shows progressions and regressions of every exercise we do. This ensures that whether you’re new or experienced, every StrongerLife coach can teach, cue, and adapt on the fly.

Continuous Improvement in Action

Even after classes begin, the process doesn’t stop. Throughout the week, coaches share feedback with Amy and Laura about what’s working and where adjustments might help. Together, they “coach the coaches,” refining cues, progressions, and class flow in real time.

It’s a living, breathing process—just like the StrongerLife community itself.

Why It Matters

This collaboration between clinical expertise and coaching excellence ensures that every movement has a purpose, every class has structure, and every member has support. It’s how StrongerLife stays true to its promise: safe, smart, and sustainable fitness for adults 55 and better.

So next time you’re catching your breath after a workout, know this—behind every rep, there’s a plan. And behind that plan, a team dedicated to helping you live stronger, longer, and better lives.

Learn More about StrongerLife

Interested in learning more about StrongerLife? Stop by for a TOUR - The Best Gym for 55+ in Lexington. We'll show you our facility built for people 55+, our unique program, and answer any questions you may have! Sign up now!