A health newsletter for adults over 60 who want to live fully, stay engaged in life, and continue doing what they love!

The Power of Having Something to Train For

Our Adventurous TogetherWON team!

Sometimes the most powerful part of training is not the exercise itself — it is having a reason to show up.

Recently, several TogetherWON athletes signed up to participate in the Senior Games, and for some of them, it was their very first race. That may sound like a simple thing, but it was a meaningful step. For some, it meant stepping outside of their comfort zone. For others, it meant trying something they had never imagined themselves doing.

Across the board, they all said the same thing: having a goal made training more motivating.

Adele (competing with a smile!) in her 1500m powerwalk!

When we are working toward something specific, exercise starts to feel less like a task and more like preparation. A walk is not just a walk. It is practice for crossing the finish line. A balance exercise is not just standing on one foot. It is building confidence for moving through the world with more freedom. A strength exercise is not just a set of repetitions. It is helping the body stay ready for the things that matter.

And the goal does not have to be a race.

For one person, the goal might be participating in the Senior Games. For another, it might be walking through the grocery store without feeling nervous, getting up from a chair more easily, traveling with family, playing pickleball, gardening, climbing stairs, or keeping up with grandkids.

The goal simply gives the work a purpose.

TogetherWON trainer Heidi, warming up with Richard

One of the best parts of watching our athletes take on this challenge was seeing how much confidence came from trying. They were not focused on being the fastest or comparing themselves to anyone else. They were focused on showing up, doing something meaningful, and proving to themselves that they could.

And maybe the best part? They all plan to participate again next year.

Karol rounding the curve to finish out her first ever 1500m race!

At TogetherWON, we believe training should connect to real life. We are not just counting exercises or checking boxes. We are asking, “What do you want your body, brain, and balance to help you keep doing?”

So this week, consider this question:

What is one thing you would like to feel stronger, steadier, or more confident doing?

That goal may be more motivating than you think.

Karol and Aaron celebrating their top finishes!

Have a Wonderful Weekend!

Kristen Nielsen

Summer Salmon, Corn & Peach Salad

This fresh summer salad is colorful, satisfying, and full of flavor. It is a good reminder that fueling your body well does not have to be complicated — especially when summer produce is at its best.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 cups mixed greens or spinach
• 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen and thawed
• 1 ripe peach, sliced
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Simple Dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Season the salmon with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the salmon in a skillet over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork. You can also grill it if you prefer.
3. While the salmon cooks, place the greens in a large bowl or on two plates. Add the corn, peach slices, cucumber, feta, and nuts.
4. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
5. Top the salad with the cooked salmon and drizzle with dressing.

Why We Like It

This recipe feels light and summery, but it still provides protein, healthy fats, and plenty of color. It is a great meal for a warm day when you want something fresh but still satisfying.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 719-286-9450

Website: www.TogetherWon.com

Caregiver Program:  www.Strong.TogetherWon.com