Physical activity is important – at every age. Getting
started exercising doesn’t have to be difficult but it does require a
little knowledge to do it right. Before you begin an exercise program,
we need to cover a few things.
Growing older is not for wimps. The body goes through even more changes
than when you experienced puberty. It can seem almost like an appliance
whose warranty has just expired. Everything that can go wrong seems to
start going wrong.
You are not a stove or dryer, but your body is a machine. To keep it
running in tiptop shape for your entire life, it needs the right amount
of maintenance and attention. When we were twenty, we could go without
paying a lot of attention to the care of our body, but lack of exercise
has a more profound effect on us when we reach fifty.
Don’t fret though. The human body responds well to good food and lots of
movement. You can feel invigorated even after you get older, but with
more wisdom about how to keep your body running smoothly.
So let's learn the five things to do before you begin an exercise
program, especially if you have been living a sedentary life for some
time.
1. Visit your doctor – This point can’t be stressed enough. As we age,
our bodies change. We are prone to different problems and conditions.
Checking with a doctor can ensure that you are in the best health
possible to be starting an exercise routine. Your doctor will also be
able to guide you with any special restrictions in diet and movement.
2. Know your limitations – No one likes to admit that there are things
they can’t do but it will keep you from getting injured or worse. If you
have joint problems, find exercises that work the muscles without
putting undue stress on the knees, hips, shoulders, lower back, or
elbows.
3. Start slowly – We can all learn something from the story of the
tortoise and the hare. Slow and steady really does win the race – the
race of being fit for life. You are more likely to stick with physical
activity when you ease into it and find your own comfortable pace.
4. Investigate what activities you can do – If you have arthritis,
signing up for a step aerobics class may not be the wisest thing. Based
on your medical clearance and any limitations you currently have, choose
an exercise that will give you the benefits without causing you further
injury or distress.
5. Consider your nutrition – All the exercise in the world won’t help
you if you are still eating those hamburgers and chocolate shakes you
enjoyed in your younger years. Learn how to adjust your eating habits to
make every move and every meal count.
Are you ready to get active? Great! Start slow, heed the advice of your
doctor, and keep up the good work!
Additional articles regarding fitness for senior
citizens:
1.
5 Exercise Myths - The Truth Every Senior Should
Know
2.
Fitness Safety For Seniors
3.
The Importance Of Stretching Exercises For Seniors
4.
5 Benefits Of Strength Training For Seniors
5.
Exercise Ideas For Seniors With Limited Mobility
6.
Water Activities For Older Adults To Stay Fit
7.
Seniors Stay Fit By Adding More Activity To Their Day
8.
The Benefits Of Walking For Seniors
9.
Why Swimming is the Perfect Exercise for Seniors
------------
Fitness Over 40: Staying Fit at 40 Plus
Please note every effort has been made to include
accurate information, but further research and the advice of a
physician is highly recommended before starting any of the workout
plans/ideas listed here.
Nothing stated or presented on the
Website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical
advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your
physician or other qualified health care provider if you have any
questions regarding a medical condition, your diet, nutritional
supplements, an exercise regimen, or any other matter related to
your health and well-being. See Health
Disclaimer for more information.
© COPYRIGHT 2011 ALL RIGHTS
RESERVED HEALTHYBIZ2000.COM