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Discover the Power of Functional Fitness—Designed for You

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At Healthwise Exercise, we believe that age is just a number—and your best years are still ahead. Our mission is to help you reclaim your vitality, independence, and confidence through Functional Fitness: a unique, medically-guided exercise program created specifically for adults over 50.

What Makes Functional Fitness with Suzanne Andrews Different?

Unlike generic fitness programs, Functional Fitness is tailored to the real-life needs of older adults. Developed with input from medical professionals and led by renowned PBS TV host Suzanne Andrews, our program focuses on movements that improve your ability to perform everyday activities—so you can enjoy life to the fullest.

  • Evidence-Based & Doctor-Recommended: Every exercise is designed to be safe, effective, and adaptable, whether you prefer standing or chair-based routines.

  • Targeted Results: Our workouts address common concerns like arthritis, bone strength, balance, bladder control, and pain relief—helping you move better, feel better, and live better.

  • Real People, Real Results: Functional Fitness has helped thousands of people just like you regain strength, flexibility, and confidence.

 

Trusted by Millions—As Seen on PBS

 

Since 2009, Functional Fitness has aired on 184 PBS stations across the US and Canada, earning the trust of viewers nationwide. Even if it’s no longer on your local PBS station, you can still experience the life-changing benefits of Functional Fitness anytime, anywhere on our streaming channel, Healthwise Exercise TV.

Your Next Step to a Healthier, Happier You

Ready to take control of your health? Choose the option that fits your lifestyle:

  • Try Healthwise Exercise TV FREE for 2 Weeks: Stream Functional Fitness and other exclusive programs from the comfort of your home—risk free!

Don’t let age or past injuries hold you back. Join the Healthwise Exercise community and discover how Functional Fitness can help you live your best life—one step, stretch, and smile at a time.

Start your free trial or shop DVDs now and feel the difference Functional Fitness can make!

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From Crisis to Strength: Suzanne Andrews Shares Her Personal Lessons for Anyone Who Wants to Thrive

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Suzanne Andrews, president of Healthwise Exercise,
 founder of Functional Fitness, PBS TV

​As I reflect on my journey to optimal health, I’m reminded that a single decision can change everything. My path wasn’t just shaped by determination or discipline — it was born out of crisis. A life-threatening illness, years of weight struggles, and a string of painful injuries pushed me to my breaking point… and ultimately toward my calling to help others reclaim their health too.

When Life Nearly Ended, I Found My Strongest Self

It began on an ordinary night. My mother, a single parent of five, was exhausted and still had hours left in her shift. We couldn’t afford a cab — but when she called home and heard something in my voice, she knew she had to come. That one choice saved my life.

She rushed home to find me motionless and writhing in unbearable pain — a pain that felt like something savage was tearing me from the inside. At the hospital, doctors diagnosed a ruptured appendix and a dangerous infection. They gave me a 50% chance of surviving surgery.

I woke up with tubes in my stomach and nose, burning with a 106° fever. I was given last rites and placed in the terminal wing. For thirty days, I hovered between life and death. But my mother never left my side.

During that time, an angel visited me every day — a kind woman who prayed with me, helped me eat, drink, even go to the bathroom — things most of us take for granted. She spent hours with me. I thought she was my friend. Only later did I learn she was actually my nurse. I gained a deep respect for medical professionals  and a seed was planted in me: someday, I wanted to help others the way she helped me.

One day, after hearing a story that said we could reach out to God when we were ready for heaven, I felt my life slipping away. I lifted my hand toward the ceiling — ready — but somehow, through prayer and incredible care, a miracle happened. The tubes were removed. My mother and I celebrated — until we weren’t celebrating anymore. My fever spiked again. Sepsis had set in.

That second brush with death changed me. I chose to fight. I was determined that if I lived, I would dedicate my life to helping others heal. I asked, “Where is my friend?” — not realizing she was my nurse — and in that moment I knew: I would go into the medical field. That experience led me to a career in Occupational Therapy, helping people regain strength, independence, and hope.

From Patient to Practitioner — and a New Mission

After I recovered, I returned to school determined to live with purpose. But I never really fit in. I skipped three grades, didn’t drink, didn’t smoke, and preferred lifting weights over late-night parties. I was bullied — sometimes even attacked — but instead of breaking me, it built my resilience. Exercise became my outlet, not just for strength, but for survival.

 

That’s when I learned a powerful truth: real health starts in the mind.

As an Occupational therapy practitioner (medical professional who specialize in helping people regain function) working with adults over 50, I saw the frustrations firsthand. Doctors tell people to exercise — but how, when you have arthritis, lung issues, osteoporosis, excess weight, or bladder leaks?

 

People need Functional Fitness — practical, safe exercises that can be done seated or standing, that grow with you, and that save you expensive co-pays. That’s why I created Functional Fitness: a program built for real people with real limitations — and real goals.

After surviving a brush with death, I turned resilience into a lifestyle. Now, I help others find the physical and mental strength to conquer anything.

Today, my passion is helping people tap into that same inner power. Because once you ignite it, there’s no limit to what you can achieve — no matter your age, condition, or past.

The Path Forward: From Surviving to Thriving

If you're over 50 and struggling with pain, fatigue, injury, or illness: please know this:

You don’t need a perfect body.
You don’t need hours in the gym.
You simply need the right program — one designed for you.

That’s why I created Functional Fitness — a safe, medically-guided workout system you can do seated or standing, right from home. It helps you move better, feel stronger, and regain your independence — no matter your age or limitations.

 

It’s not just exercise. It’s fitness to rediscover your life the way it was intended. 


Pain free, stronger muscles and bones, more flexible, more energy, better mobility & more!


It’s the same kind of strength that saved my life, keeps me young and independent in my senior years — and it can transform your life too.

If you're ready to feel better, move better, and live better — I invite you to join me.

Let's thrive together!

© Healthwise Exercise, LLC

Producers of Suzanne Andrews Functional Fitness

Phone:  1-877-523-4848

Email: info@healthwiseexercise.com

Customer Service: Mon-Sat 9AM - 6PM

As Seen on PBS TV

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DISCLAIMER: Consult your physician and follow all safety instructions before beginning this or any exercise program. The contents on our website are for informational purposes only, and are not intended to diagnose any medical condition, replace the advice of a healthcare professional, or provide any medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  While Healthwise Exercise follows best injury prevention practices for all fitness over 50 at home workouts, you understand that there is a risk of injury associated with participating in exercise with any at home workouts or fitness program.  You agree to assume full responsibility for any and all injuries, losses and damages that you incur while attending, exercising or participating in Healthwise Exercise LLC programs. You hereby waive all claims against Healthwise Exercise LLC, its instructors, or partners of individually or otherwise, for any and all injuries, claims or damages that you might incur.

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