Apr

1

Fitness In Your Fifties

Posted by maureen

April 1, 2007 |

running-shoes.jpg

Exercise becomes more important as you age. We have all heard about osteoporosis with aging and metabolism decreasing, leading to weight gain and loss of general fitness and health. Ailments increase as we become more sedentary. When I was 54 I decided to be less sedentary and step up the pace on my exercise routine by including some running. Age is not a reason to slow down. Today I am 59 years old and following is my routine’s impact on me:

  • I wear the same size clothes as I did when I was in my twenties.
  • My energy level at work is as good if not better than anyone of any age
  • I am not on any type of medication.
  • I haven’t had an illness except the odd cold in over 40 years.

My exercise routine is simple:

Walking
I walk 2.5 miles at a local park every day after work. I do this pretty much rain or shine. If the weather is really bad I walk at home on the treadmill
Running
I run the same park trail on weekend mornings that I walk each day. Once again I’ll run at home on the treadmill if the weather is really, really bad. (For me running outside is so much more enjoyable than running inside that I’ll brave cold weather, rain and even a little snow!)

Weight Training
I lift weights twice a week: one day for the upper body, one day for the lower body. I use a combination of the weight machine we have at home plus a bench and dumbbells. This enables me to do the heavier weights and combination of lifts that strengthen areas that are more vulnerable to injury and damage as you age; the spine, hips and femur. It’s important to lift heavier weights for bone density. Of course, if you don’t have a weight machine at home then your local gym is worth a visit. They can get you set up on a program to help you with a routine and an instructor if needed. Lifting weights does not make ladies muscular it tones you and can actually make you slimmer.

It’s also inexpensive:

A pair of running shoes each year
$5.00 annual park entrance sticker
Shorts and T-shirts.
Under Armour wear for cold winter (light weight and warm)

I think we have all heard about the health benefits we get from regular exercise but for me is an essential part of life. I get a definite “lift” from exercising and it’s something I look forward to each day.


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