Fit at 50+

 

We’re getting older…so what? Age is just a number. It is your mindset that matters. If you want to improve your health over 50, there’s never a better time to start than today. Creating new habits that enhance your health will help you stay active as you age.

As we age, a natural part of the aging process called sarcopenia can lead to muscle weakness and physical frailty. However, numerous studies have found that resistance training can help strengthen muscles and counteract these negative effects.

Here are some tips on getting moving:

  1. Strength Training. This is probably the single most important thing you should add to your workout routine. It is important to work on your muscles after 50. As we age, they shrink. Strength training not only increases muscle mass, which increases metabolism, but it also increases the body’s natural collagen production. So, men and women both need to do some strength training to keep their bones strong too. Aim for 30 minutes a day, 3-4 times a week, to start.
  2. Cardio. Regular exercise has been shown to benefit those with chronic disorders and to lower the risk of or delay the onset of numerous diseases and illnesses. Additionally, it lowers your risk of developing dementia, depression, cognitive decline, and memory loss. If you are just starting out, we recommend you start with 20 minutes a day, 4-5 days a week. Once you are comfortable with that, you can do 30+ minutes 5 days a week.
  3. Balance, flexibility, shoulder, and knee rehabilitation. Be sure to do exercises to maintain the health of your joints, knees, shoulder, and spine. These are the parts we use for most of our movements, and their fitness defines our fitness levels. Your body loses flexibility, which will make you more prone to injuries. You want to make sure you can move all your joints fluidly and get about with ease in your daily life.

The best gift you can give yourself is to continue being active well into your fifties. If you have any questions, make sure you ask one of our personal trainers. If you are new to exercising, make sure you speak to your doctor before starting any exercise routine.