Mastering Fitness in Your Later Years
It is never too late to decide you want to take better care of your health. The most important thing to have when you decide to get fit is a positive mindset. You also need to be aware of what exercises are the most effective and safe for someone over 40 who is looking to get in shape.
Daily aerobic activity is a major part of getting in shape. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity each day. It can be speed walking, jogging, swimming, or anything else that gets your heart rate up to over 100 beats per minute. Three days out of the week, your exercise program should also include muscle strengthening. Try to hit all of the major muscle groups each time.
Another important type of exercise to add to your routine after 40 is balance. This can help to prevent injury. Examples of balance exercises include walking heel-to-toe in a straight line and balancing on a single leg. You can start out with something simple, such as shifting your weight back and forth between your legs with the opposite foot slightly raised.
Once you are feeling more confident, you may want to look into a program like Crossfit. This is a good way to keep getting in shape fun while fostering a healthy sense of competition. Motivation is the key to success when it comes to mastering fitness.
Another good way to motivate yourself is to connect exercise with your loved ones. Wanting to be around to see your children or grandchildren grow up is a great way to keep yourself focused. Healthy living requires commitment, which can be easier when you have a set reason why you are doing it.
Of course, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider prior to beginning an exercise program. Tell them about any previous injuries you have had. That way, they can tell you exercises to avoid and which ones can be safely done to build up strength in that area.
On top of feeling better physically, getting into shape can make you feel better psychologically as well. Just make sure to start slow but do not quit until you have reached your goals!
Originally published at https://frankmichelin.net.
