About Betsy
Betsy Mendel fell in love with fitness in the ’80s during the age of Jane Fonda and step aerobics. Even more than the physical benefits, she loved how working out made her feel. After moving to Los Angeles from Atlanta, Mendel started her own personal training business. Mendel laughs, remembering how she used to advertise using tear-off fliers before the dawn of the internet.
After 20 years as a personal trainer, Mendel looked around and realized most of her clients were over 60. It dawned on her how underserved that community was in the fitness industry, so she decided to rebrand her personal training company exclusively for seniors and call it Baby Boomers and Beyond Fitness. The transition into serving exclusively clientele over 60 was easy, Mendel says.
“I know the age-appropriate exercises. I know how to make someone feel comfortable, avoid injury and all that. I just thought that it was a great fit for me. And, my clients, I enjoy them so much. I really do enjoy training,” she says.
The first thing Mendel does when she gets a new client is to make sure they have consulted with their doctor to learn about their limitations. After that, Mendel does a consultation at their home to assess what level the new client is starting at and develops a personalized plan.
“I start them off slowly. We start with low-impact activities and build up from there. We incorporate all kinds of elements, including cardiovascular strength and flexibility,” Mendel says. “I encourage them to listen to their body. And when we finish, my clients are just overjoyed. They didn’t realize they could do what they’re doing.”
Mendel’s sessions last 50 minutes. She always begins with a 10-minute warmup and ends with five to 10 minutes of body flexibility or assisted stretching. She operates primarily out of clients’ homes and charges $135 per session.
Mendel says it is rewarding to see how her clients transform over a year of working together. She recalls one couple who she has been training for about a year. Mendel says that they seem transformed. Not only did they improve their health, but she also says they have become happier people. … And they never miss a session!
It’s important to keep up with physical fitness as we age, Mendel says. Working out helps prevent illness, prevents weight gain, and helps people maintain their flexibility. More importantly, she says working out helps her clients feel better overall. Age is just a number, but physical fitness is forever, she says.
My favorite client story
After losing 50lbs my client posted a photo of him holding 50 lb bag of dog food...lol
My favorite exercise
Love "em all. Don't have a favorite:)
My favorite quote
Age is a number - Fitness is a lifestle
My training philosophy
Move A Muscle, Change A Mood
My training experience
I've been training clients in sunny Southern California since 1999. Love to work with you!
Areas of Expertise
- Strength Training
- Weight Loss
- Flexibility and Mobility
- Functional Training
NCCA Accredited Certifications
Additional Certifications
American Red Cross Adult CPR/AED
Who I Especially Like Working With
Men, Women
Training Areas Served
In-home or Outdoor Training
Very simply put, Betsy has been my personal trainer for the last couple of years, and she has given me advice on all aspects of weight gain vs. weight loss and on nutrition, etc.....I am happy to report that I have lost over NINETY (90) POUNDS over the last year-and-a-half, mostly due to Betsy's expertise and gentle guidance....Feel free to check out my before & after pix on my Facebook Page. I feel like a new man and I'm CONSTANTLY complimented by all of my friends and colleagues on how I look now. Betsy is by far the best and kindest soul, and I would wholeheartedly and unequivocally recommend her for anyone considering a new personal trainer....
My husband and I have been working out with Betsy in our home for over the past 2 years. Betsy designs workout that are always different. They are hard but certainly not boring! My husband has arthritic shoulders and Betsy has been careful to work around his limitations. He is also a rather reluctant exerciser and I have been impressed at how receptive he has been to Betsy's guidance and prodding. She can walk a delicate balance with him. The other issue worth noting is that Betsy is the MOST reliable person I have ever worked with in any area. She rings our bell at 8 a.m. sharp--never late, never early. In this day and age that is remarkable. I can recommend Betsy without reservation.
Betsy is awesome. Always on time, and committed. I've trained with her for about 3 years, have had good results. She works with your schedule and gives you a great session . Have absolutely no complaints. I recommend her wholeheartedly!
I recently started working with Betsy and I must say that you see results if you stay committed. With a good variety of exercises and training methods I am working out parts of my body that I have been ignoring during my own workouts. I know by sticking with this positive and motivating training I will achieve the goals I am looking for. Thanks Betsy!
I recently lost weight but have always struggled with that last 10 pounds. A friend recommended I try Betsy and I'm so happy that I did! Not only did I drop the 10 Lbs but I am also now exercising 3-4 times a week and have never felt better!!! Thank You!!
Betsy's workouts are challenging but not impossible (which is a positive). She focuses on my specific needs and creates workouts that push me out of my comfort zone. She pays special attention to form in order to prevent injury. She is reliable and keeps you accountable for your own goals. Since I began training with Betsy, I have become more toned, more flexible and more confidant.
Since working with Betsy Mendel I have successfully completed over 30 marathons. The mobility and strength training Betsy provides helped me finish every race within my finish time goals.
I cannot express enough how much of a positive impact Betsy has made on my fitness journey. From day one, it was evident that she was not just someone who guided workouts but a true mentor and motivator genuinely invested in my success. What truly sets Betsy apart is her inspiring enthusiasm and positive attitude. No matter how tough the workout, she managed to keep the atmosphere light-hearted and fun, making me look forward to each session. She consistently pushed me beyond my comfort zone, encouraging me to achieve things I never thought possible. Her unwavering support and belief in my potential helped me build confidence and motivation to keep going, even on days when I felt discouraged. Beyond the gym, she is always available to provide guidance and support. Whether answering questions about nutrition, recommending additional exercises to do at home, or giving encouragement when I'm feeling low. Her dedication extends far beyond the training sessions. I wholeheartedly recommend Betsy to anyone looking to embark on a transformative fitness journey. Her genuine passion for health and fitness, combined with her exceptional coaching skills, make her an invaluable trainer. If you're ready to take your fitness to the next level, look no further - Betsy is the one you've been searching for!
`I can't recommend Betsy enough. She took the time to listen to my training needs and tailored a plan so I can reach my goals. My goal was to strengthen and tone. I've seen my body change with her workouts and could not be happier. Not only is she a skilled trainer but she's always a lovely person.
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