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At 68 years old, Shebah Carfagna is redefining her limits following her second hip replacement. Just 48 days post-surgery, she is not only regaining her strength but also sharing her insights on fitness and resilience with others on similar journeys. Carfagna’s story underscores the importance of determination and the power of a proactive approach to health.
Carfagna’s personal journey has been anything but simple. As a single mother raising a son with autism while navigating a demanding corporate career, she faced numerous challenges. “Life handed me more than enough stress to derail me. However, I refused to let hardship define me. Instead, I chose to turn every challenge into fuel,” she explains.
Twenty-five years ago, Carfagna transitioned from her corporate role to the fitness industry. Since then, she has accumulated over 15 fitness certifications and co-founded the Ageless Workout Method, which emphasizes resilience, mental toughness, and holistic wellness. Her dedication to fitness has also earned her recognition as a 2025 AARP Senior Planet Sponsored Athlete.
Mobility Workout for Recovery
Carfagna has developed a specific mobility workout designed to aid her recovery after hip surgery. She emphasizes that pain management and progress are intertwined, highlighting the importance of consistent physical activity. Her daily routine begins with five minutes of mobility exercises while her morning coffee brews. These exercises include ankle circles, seated marches, and arm swings—small actions that she describes as having a significant impact.
Following her initial mobility warm-up, Carfagna dedicates 10-15 minutes to strength and resistance training. Her routine consists of:
– Supported squats to a chair
– Wall or countertop push-ups
– Resistance band rows or deadlifts
– Standing hip abductions and gentle leg extensions
– Core breaths and pelvic tilts, either standing or seated
She concludes her workout with focused breathing or mindfulness practices, such as balancing on one leg with wall support. “I don’t let my conditions manage me; I manage them,” she states. Each challenge, she believes, contributes to her legacy and motivates her to move forward.
Advice for Beginners
For those new to fitness or returning after an injury, Carfagna offers straightforward advice: “Start where you are. Walk, stretch, breathe, and show up for yourself—consistently. Progress is born from small steps, repeated with intention.” She encourages individuals to train their minds alongside their bodies, incorporating coordination drills and mindfulness into their routines.
Carfagna also stresses the importance of neuroplasticity, asserting that mental exercises can complement physical training. “Please, don’t wait for a crisis to build strength,” she emphasizes, urging others to adopt a proactive mindset in their fitness journeys.
Carfagna’s approach is not just about physical recovery; it’s about fostering a resilient mindset. Her insights serve as a reminder that every obstacle can become a stepping stone towards greater strength and well-being. As she continues to rebuild her strength, her story inspires others to embrace their fitness journeys, no matter the challenges they face.
