From Land to Water: How Stacy Huston Keeps Adults Active and Strong
- Healthwise Exercise
- Oct 9
- 5 min read
I’ve (Suzanne Andrews) been in the fitness field for over 40 years, with experience in physical medicine with Occupational therapy, and my show has aired on 184 PBS stations — so it really takes a lot to impress me. But Stacy Huston did just that! She’s one of my favorite fitness instructors because she knows how to keep workouts safe, smart, and fun at the same time. Her teaching talents are demonstrated in both her aqua classes and land workouts. Her deep understanding of exercise mechanics and her upbeat teaching style make her a true standout. I’m excited to share that Stacy Huston’s “Muscles and Midsection Chair Workout” is now available on Healthwise Exercise TV, so you can experience her amazing instruction for yourself!
If you’ve ever thought a chair workout couldn’t be challenging or fun, Stacy Huston is here to change your mind. With her background in corrective exercise, aqua fitness, and senior fitness, she brings a fresh, knowledgeable approach that makes every move count — and every participant feel successful. In this interview, Stacy shares what inspires her, how she designs workouts that are both safe and effective, and why helping people of all ages stay active is her true passion. Get ready to be inspired by the woman behind the “Muscles and Midsection Chair Workout” now streaming on Healthwise Exercise TV!
"Time isn’t standing still and you shouldn’t be either."
What inspired you to become a fitness professional?
I began my fitness career as a participant in a YMCA class. I had loved taking classes there and was finding it benefited my overall mood and health. I was approached by
the staff if I had any interest in teaching and immediately felt excitement as if this was what I was called to do. I loved what exercise had done for me and I wanted to share that with everyone.
What certifications, degrees, or specialized training do you hold?
I am certified with the American Council on Exercise (ACE) with certifications in Group Fitness, Personal Training, and Fitness Nutrition Specialist. Other specialties include
FITOUR Aqua Fitness Instructor and Corrective Exercise Specialist with The Biomechanics Method. Over my years I have taken training in many areas to also include
myofascial release and older adults. I love bringing fitness to both my land and aqua based classes.
How do you approach fitness for people over 50, and what makes it unique compared to younger populations?
Most of my clients are 50 and older, and they’re truly my favorite group to work with. I understand that older adults have unique needs when it comes to maintaining
mobility and aging well. Many have lived with their bodies for decades and may experience inflammation scar tissue, joint replacements, limited range of motion, balance challenges, or difficulty performing everyday activities. Because my
participants value quality of life and independence, I focus on teaching them how to move correctly. In class, we practice functional movements—those we rely on in daily life
—with proper form, so that everyday tasks become easier and more enjoyable outside the gym.
What are three of your favorite exercises for people over 50, and why?
Three of my all-time favorite exercises would be squats, planks, and ankle work. I believe that squats are the most
fundamental movement that everyone needs to be able to complete in order to move about through their day; planks
are a great way to work the core and learn how to engage the body
while practicing breathing skills; and any exercises involving the ankles (such as calf raises, toe taps) to improve the strength and flexibility of that area
which is greatly needed for our gait.
What’s one small lifestyle habit you recommend that makes a big difference in long-term health?
One of the best habits you can build is positive thinking. When you face challenges with an optimistic mindset,
they become much easier to overcome. Train yourself to find the good even in difficult situations, and don’t underestimate the power of a simple
smile—it can truly brighten the whole room.
What’s a common misconception about exercising later in life that you’d like to clear up?
A misconception that I find often is that older people can’t do the same exercises as someone much younger.
I find this totally inaccurate. I have a wonderful early morning class that does everything from floor work to step aerobics
to agility drills. I call them my athletes as I continue to give them challenges and they meet them head on. I find that it’s not about your age but it’s more about your determination and how you approach exercise.
Can you share a client success story that has inspired you in your career?
I have a wonderful lady whom started in my class when I was a new instructor, years ago. She came to class walking with a cane and had severe mobility issues with her
walking. In the beginning, she sat for most of the exercises but was determined to be in class regularly. Working on strength and balance, she improved her lower body condition and nowadays she walks with much better ease and I haven’t
seen the cane in such a long time.
What advice would you give to someone who feels hesitant or intimidated to start exercising after 50?
Getting started with exercise after 50 can feel challenging, but like anything worthwhile in life, it’s never truly easy. My best advice is to begin with small steps and gradually
build up as your body feels ready. Don’t be discouraged if you can’t do everything
others in class are doing—everyone is unique, and no two bodies are the same.
Remember, your instructor is there to support you, so if an exercise
doesn’t feel right, talk with them before or after class for guidance. Most importantly, find a type of movement you genuinely enjoy. Staying active doesn’t have to mean going
to the gym—it might be playing pickleball with friends, gardening, or doing water
aerobics in your own pool. The key is choosing something that makes you feel good and keeps you moving.
What’s your personal favorite way to stay active?
My personal favorite way to keep active is with cross training. I have an autoimmune condition and it affects my connective tissue so I need to find ways to get my exercise
without causing too much inflammation. I mix it up with some land workouts, getting into
my pool for my water aerobics which is very joint friendly, and I love being outdoors walking my dog.
If you could give just one piece of fitness advice to people over 50, what would it be?
My one piece of advice is that time isn’t standing still and you shouldn’t be either. Get off the couch and move.
It’s easy to see why Stacy Huston has become one of my favorite fitness professionals — her passion, expertise, and genuine care for helping others shine through in everything she does. Whether on land or in the water, Stacy makes fitness accessible, safe, and fun for all levels. If you’d like to experience her uplifting energy and effective water workouts for yourself, you can check out her on-demand water exercise classes here: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/aquafiit.
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