Achieving Strength, Both Physically And Mentally, During Their Twilight Years

The physical limitations associated with ageing certainly don’t faze Team Strong Silvers. How exactly are these individuals so adamant about achieving strength, both physically and mentally, during their twilight years?

- Derrick Tan

A particular group of seniors is raising the bar of healthy living and their efforts are gold standard-worthy. Calling themselves Team Strong Silvers—a local fitness community consisting of silver age individuals—they are showcasing their exercise routines via various social media channels. Their aim is to encourage fellow senior citizens to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Formed in 2013, Team Strong Silvers comprises five core members, including Ng Bee Kia, 76, and Ngai Hin Kwok, 72. The group has amassed about 7,000 followers and 2.1 million views on TikTok since joining the platform in 2019. The exposure also propelled one member, Victor Chan, to star in a local IKEA campaign promoting the Efterträda apparel collection.

Robert Ho, 51, who’s the facilitator managing the social media platforms of Team Strong Silvers, says, “Having a presence on social media helps to get our intended message out to as many people as possible.” But their message goes beyond a brisk walk around the running track or tai chi in the park during the dawn; in fact, their choice of workout isn’t the obvious option that someone from their age group would take up. Requiring minimal or even no equipment, the group specialises in the fine art of callisthenics.

Ever seen a muscle-up? It’s a radial pull-up where the chest approaches the bar, with the wrists flexed to bring the forearms above the bar. The routine ends with the bar at your waist and your arms fully straightened.