Starting or maintaining a regular exercise routine can be a challenge as you get older. However the reality of choice for over 50 is simple, either get older or get fit!
The function of youth is to generate, and over 50, it is to regenerate. What use to be a “no brainer” in your twenties (thanks to natural growth hormones) requires a little more thought and planing over 50. Scientific researchers all conclude, you can regenerate at any age – but it does take continuous work!
There are three key area’s which require consistent attention over 50 and they are:
Muscle Strength: After 50, maintaining muscle strength becomes imperative and unless exercised regularly, muscle will degenerate. Sarcopenia is a term used for loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength because of ageing. Depending on your level of inactivity, you will lose between 3% – 5% of muscle mass each decade after 30. Resistance training is necessary twice a week to maintain basic movement function over 50.
Cardiovascular fitness: Reported benefits of cardio workouts on physical fitness are endless. A Cardio workout of only 30-minute will pump extra blood to your brain, deliver oxygen and nutrients to vital organs and muscles more effectively. Cardio workouts also floods the brain with chemicals that enhance functions such as memory, problem solving, and decision-making.
Flexibility and Balance: Yoga is an effective practice in improving flexibility and balance by working through the Nervous system and improving blood circulation, it helps the easing of muscle tension with the act of focusing the mind on the breath. It also acts on the digestive system by speeding up a sluggish digestion. Also improves the Musculoskeletal joints, by movement through their full range of motion, encouraging mobility and ease pressure on the joints.
This information is probably not new to you, or perhaps overwhelming.
Where do you start?
Start with us! We make Shaping up after 50 easy with only three options:
- Join our Shape-UP group fitness at Artarmon Bowling Club or Epping Community Centre;
- Start our 10 week Shape-Up Start up gym based program or;
- Start our At Home exercising program – Free!
Contact us and we will discuss which option will best suit you and your lifestyle.
Click here to contact us!
Age is just a number – live well and eat well
Anna
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