Jenny McClendon, MS, PT, CGCP, is redefining what it means to stay active after 50. With over 30 years of experience in both physical therapy and fitness instruction, Jenny has built “Jenny Fit Start,” a YouTube-based fitness platform focused on empowering seniors and beginners to live healthier lives. What began as home workouts for her “Fit Over 50” clients during the pandemic quickly evolved into a full-fledged movement, now trusted by millions seeking safe, supportive, and motivating fitness content.
Jenny McClendon’s Path from Physical Therapy to Fitness Advocacy
Raised in Raleigh, North Carolina, Jenny’s early life revolved around sports, from cheerleading to competitive gymnastics. By 17, she was already teaching aerobics classes and quickly realized fitness was more than just a hobby; it was her calling. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education with a minor in Sports Management from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and later pursued a Master’s in Physical Therapy at East Carolina University.
Jenny’s work as a PT focused heavily on geriatrics and outpatient orthopedics, giving her a nuanced understanding of the specific needs of aging populations. Her certification as a Geriatric Care Professional deepened this expertise, laying the foundation for the comprehensive, medically informed approach that defines Jenny Fit Start today.
Launching “Jenny Fit Start”: A Trusted Hub for Senior Fitness
When lockdowns disrupted her in-person fitness classes, Jenny started filming YouTube videos to help her older clients stay active at home. The response was immediate. People loved the approachable style, the clear instructions, and her energetic but grounded demeanor. Today, her YouTube channel features hundreds of free workouts, ranging from chair yoga and low-impact cardio to strength training and balance drills.
Each session reflects Jenny’s commitment to fitness over 50, emphasizing form, safety, and positivity. Her mantra? “Five minutes is better than no minutes”; a philosophy that resonates deeply with her audience and removes the pressure of perfection from exercise.
Fitness Tips That Resonate With Aging Bodies
Jenny combines her knowledge as a physical therapist with her passion for group fitness, making her programs ideal for anyone dealing with mobility limitations, osteoporosis, or poor posture. Her focus on balance, bone density, and functional strength has helped thousands prevent falls, improve daily function, and gain confidence in their bodies.
Incorporating exercises that build stability and enhance joint function, Jenny frequently explains not just the “how” but the “why” behind each movement, a feature that sets her channel apart from many general workout platforms. She also curates specialized playlists, such as “Beginner Fitness,” “Senior Strength,” and “Stretching for Mobility,” to help viewers find what suits them best.
Jenny’s Fit Bunch and Community Connection
Beyond her free content, Jenny offers a premium membership known as Jenny’s Fit Bunch, where members receive live weekly workouts, wellness Q&As, and bonus content tailored to their individual goals. The private community promotes friendship and accountability, especially important for older adults who may feel isolated or hesitant about starting a fitness journey.
She also runs fitness retreats, creating a real-world opportunity for her online community to meet, move, and grow together. These events include workout sessions, healthy meals, and educational workshops, all designed to support overall wellness, not just physical strength.
Apart from this, Jenny’s work has gained significant attention in the online fitness space. Her channel has been featured in O, The Oprah Magazine and Glamour Magazine, praised for its clarity, consistency, and effectiveness. With over 20 million views, Jenny has become a go-to expert in senior fitness, beginner exercise routines, and balance training.
She continues to advocate for accessible health and movement through collaborations and educational content, including appearances on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, where she shares tips, workouts, and motivational updates.
Jenny McClendon’s journey from physical therapist to YouTube fitness expert is a powerful example of purpose meeting innovation. By addressing the overlooked needs of older adults and beginners, she’s created a fitness brand rooted in care, clarity, and community. Through Jenny Fit Start, she continues to make it easier and more joyful for everyone to move more and feel better.
Explore More:
Instagram: @jennyfitstart
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennyfitstart
TikTok: @jennyfitstart
