Project Strong | Strength Training for Older Adults

"Movement is medicine — and we're here to make it joyful."

Who We Are

About Project Strong

Project Strong is dedicated to helping older adults improve their strength, mobility, and overall well-being. Our tailored programs are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual, promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle.

We've built more than a training program — we've built a community. A place where every milestone is celebrated, every challenge is met with support, and where getting stronger is always better together.

See What Makes Us Different

The Science

Why Strength Training?

Combats age-related muscle loss
Improves balance & coordination
Increases bone density
Reduces fall & injury risk
Supports heart health
Boosts metabolism & posture
Builds confidence & independence

Strength training is essential for older adults as it helps combat age-related muscle loss and maintain overall physical strength and mobility. As we age, our bodies naturally lose muscle mass — a process known as sarcopenia — which can lead to decreased mobility, reduced bone density, and an increased risk of falls and injuries.

By engaging in regular strength training exercises, older adults can build and preserve muscle mass, improve balance and coordination, and enhance their overall functional abilities. This not only allows them to maintain their independence and quality of life but also reduces the risk of chronic conditions such as osteoporosis, arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases.

Strength training can also boost metabolism, improve posture, and provide a sense of empowerment and confidence — making it a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle for the aging population.

"Heavy lifting isn't just for young people — it's especially beneficial for maintaining bone density, muscle mass, and functional strength as we age."

Our Approach

What Makes Project Strong Different

We're not a one-size-fits-all program. Here's what sets us apart.

We Believe in Lifting Heavy

Unlike many programs that focus only on light weights and basic movements, Project Strong embraces the philosophy that older adults can and should lift challenging weights. We progressively build your strength using compound movements like deadlifts, squats, and presses. Heavy lifting isn't just for young people — it's especially beneficial for maintaining bone density, muscle mass, and functional strength as we age.

Specifically Designed for Older Adults

Every aspect of our program is tailored to the unique needs, goals, and considerations of older adults. We understand the physiological changes that come with aging and design our programming accordingly — addressing age-related concerns like joint mobility, balance, and recovery while maximizing the benefits of strength training for this population.

Evidence-Based Programming

Our methods are grounded in scientific research specific to aging and strength training. We don't rely on outdated assumptions about what older adults "should" or "shouldn't" do. Instead, we apply proven principles of progressive overload, periodization, and functional movement patterns that have been shown to be safe and effective for mature adults.

Individual Attention & Progression

While many programs use a one-size-fits-all approach, we recognize that every individual comes with different experiences, limitations, and goals. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention, proper form coaching, and individualized progression plans that meet you exactly where you are — and take you where you want to go.

Project Strong is BoneFit Certified

Bone Fit™ Certified Training

Bone Fit™ Exercise and Clinical workshops provide safe, effective, evidence-based exercises to create a continuum of care from the clinic to the community or home. Developed by Osteoporosis Canada, the program equips fitness professionals with the knowledge and tools to safely work with individuals living with osteoporosis or low bone density.

Project Strong is proud to be Bone Fit™ certified — giving our participants the confidence that every exercise and progression is grounded in the latest bone health research and best practices.

Our People

Meet the Team

Our certified specialists bring decades of experience working with — and advocating for — older adults.

Bonnie Campbell

Founder & Head Coach

Bonnie is the owner and creator of Project Strong, a welcoming community dedicated to helping older adults build strength, confidence, and resilience through movement. With a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, she brings a dynamic and fun approach to fitness, making every session engaging and empowering.

As a certified Personal Trainer, Exercise Therapist, Nutrition Coach, and Functional Aging Specialist, Bonnie holds numerous CrossFit certifications and has been a lead coach for McMaster University and the Canadian Frailty Network's research project on strength training in older adults.

Bonnie is also a BoneFit Level 2 Trainer with Osteoporosis Canada and has worked as a Physiotherapy Assistant at the Orthopaedic Sports Institute, giving her a deep understanding of how to safely train individuals with a variety of mobility and health concerns.

Cory Tester

Registered Kinesiologist

For the past 11 years, Cory has worked as a Registered Kinesiologist, specializing in exercise prescription for older adults and ergonomics for individuals and businesses. Cory has been BoneFit trained by Osteoporosis Canada.

Cory holds a degree in Kinesiology and Physical Education with Honours and Distinction from Wilfrid Laurier University. He runs group education and exercise sessions on fall prevention and osteoporosis at the Collingwood Leisure Time Club, and offers private in-home training through his business, Collingwood Active Wellness.

Outside of work, Cory enjoys trail running on the escarpment, cycling, rock climbing, nordic skiing, and playing soccer.

Before You Begin

Important Notice for New Participants

Please review the following important information before joining Project Strong. All three steps apply to every new participant.

Step 1

Waiting List

Due to high demand, we currently have a waiting list for new participants. Please click the button below to join our waiting list and we'll reach out as soon as a spot opens up.

Join the Waiting List

Step 2

Health Screening

To ensure your safety and tailor our program to your needs, all new participants must undergo a health screening before starting. This screening helps us understand your current fitness level and any health considerations so we can support you properly.

Step 3

Fundamentals Training

New members are required to complete our fundamentals training. These classes introduce you to proper techniques, safety measures, and the basics of our strength training program — giving you a strong foundation before joining regular classes.

Learn the foundations of strength at your own pace, from the comfort of home.

Optional Supplement

Online Course

Fundamentals Training Companion Course

Want to get a head start before your in-person sessions? Our Online Fundamentals Training Companion Course is an optional self-paced supplement designed to complement the in-person fundamentals program.

Work through the foundational concepts, movements, and terminology at your own pace — so you arrive at your first class feeling confident and prepared.

Start the Online Course

Strength Training
Built for You.

About Project Strong

Why Strength Training?