People are living longer than ever before. Advances in medicine, nutritional
awareness, and improved exercise habits have contributed to the rapid growth of
the 65+ age group. By the year 2030, there will be more people over age 65 than
under age 18!
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In order to make their later years more healthy and
productive, many older Americans are adopting a lifestyle promoting
total well-being, including eating a healthful diet, engaging in regular
exercise, reducing stress, and improving mental health. |
Fitness For “The Young At Heart”
Exercise is no less important for those in their sixties and seventies than
it is for people half that age. No matter what your age, the benefits of
exercise are the same — increased energy and self-esteem, conditioned heart and
lungs, improved muscle tone, and greater function of bones and joints.
The effects of certain chronic diseases, such as diabetes, high blood
pressure, arthritis, and osteoporosis, can also be reduced by engaging in
regular exercise. There are many sports and activities you can choose from in
order to achieve your fitness goals. The best choices, however, will be those
activities that you truly enjoy. It’s much easier to stay with something that’s
fun to do. Even walking for 30 minutes, 4-5 days a week, will go a long way in
keeping you fit!
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Every little bit adds up so consider making some of the following changes in
your routine:
-park a few parking places further from the door of the store;
-when getting the mail, take a 'detour' and add 50 more steps before getting the
mail;
-set a lunch date with friends near a bike path or park and walk for 15 minutes
before eating lunch;
-take the stairs instead of the elevator;
-hide the remote control away from the couch, so you have to get up to change
the channel.Take Steps To Be Fit— Walk!
Walking is a great way to achieve overall fitness year-round. It strengthens
your cardiovascular system, tones and limbers up your muscles, and burns off
unwanted calories. Walking at a brisk pace gives you the same aerobic benefits
as jogging!
Getting In Shape
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It is very important to have shoes that tie and provide adequate
support and shock absorption. During the first week, walk 10-15
minutes at a slow pace. Stay on a flat surface — avoid hills and
stairs. After a week, maintain the same distance but pick up your
pace. Over the next several weeks, build up gradually to a 20- to-
30-minute walk, 3-4 times weekly, at a pace that is brisk but
comfortable. You should be able to walk and talk at the same time. |
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