As we age, so does our bodies. The things that we can do before easily seems to be difficult now. The most important thing to do as we age is to keep our bodies healthy. With proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle, we can keep up with our day to day activities without harming our bodies. Of course, do activities that won’t strain your body; importantly, your body won’t easily breakdown. Aside from proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle, one of the most essential activities is exercise. It is given that working out our bodies can have many benefits, especially for older people.
Essential Benefits of Exercise
Exercise can keep help in maintaining a healthier heart, stronger bones, and increased flexibility. It is ideal for older adults to have a regular exercise program. It can decrease the risk of chronic diseases, reduce the chance of injury, and even improve memory and mood!
Muscle mass begins to decrease as we reach our forties, and it typically continues at a rate of 3-5% per decade. Muscle is the major contributor to balance and bone strength, and losing it can result in limited mobility and independence. Exercise will help you rebuild that much-needed muscle.
A recent study out of Sweden also found that physical activity was the top contributor to longevity, possibly adding years to your life. And the best news is that you can acquire these benefits even if you don’t start exercising until later in life.
Have Your Goal and Get Healthy
Do you need to start training for a marathon? Or set a goal to deadlift twice your body weight? Not even close! You can make a difference in your health and fitness by incorporating activities into your daily routine:
- Walk the golf course instead of using a cart
- Take photographs on a nature hike
- Take your dog for extra-long walks
- Window shop while taking brisk walks at the mall
- Listen to your favorite podcasts or music while you lift weights
- Watch your favorite TV shows from the treadmill
Sometimes exercise is more fun if you do it with a friend. Find one whose company you enjoy and get fit together!