).png)
How to live fit beyond fifty, demystifying aging and embracing vitality.
When I hit my 40's, like many women I struggled with my weight. My body was hanging onto baby bearing weight. I'd diet and do tons of cardio and lose a little. Then I'd stop and gain most of it back again. I tried every product and program out there, cut carbs, counted points, ate fat free. Boy did I have it wrong.
When I discovered the gym and started working with a trainer for the first time I learned what healthy eating looks like and that lifting heavy weights is the best way to lose weight and get into shape. Now, at age 53, I am in better shape than I was in my 20's, have more energy and less pain.
Myth: Aging means inevitable decline in physical abilities.
While it's true that certain physical changes come with age, such as decreased muscle mass and bone density, regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle can mitigate these effects. Many older adults maintain high levels of physical fitness well into their later years. And what I have discovered is lifting weights is the best way to ward off physical decline. When I started I had severe tendonitis pain in my shoulder. I had spent weeks every day saying I couldn't go to the gym because I was in pain. I'd lay on the sofa with a heating pad on my shoulder, take a pain pill and complain. Don't get me wrong. The first upper body day I did hurt like hell. But over time I learned to ice my pain after training. And after seven years I rarely have flare-ups. And when I do...I go train and the pain goes away.
Myth: Strength training is only for young people.
Strength training is beneficial for individuals of all ages, including older adults. It helps maintain muscle mass, bone density, and overall strength, reducing the risk of falls and fractures. And for women it mitigates the onset of osteoporosis by incireasing bone density. I started training at the age of 47. I weight the same as I did when I was in my 30's but my physique has improved.
"Age is no barrier. It's a limitation you put on your mind." - Jackie Joyner-Kersee
Myth: You should take it easy as you age.
This is the biggest crock of shit there is. While it's important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion, staying active is crucial for maintaining health and mobility as you age. Regular physical activity can actually improve energy levels, mood, and overall well-being.
Myth: It's too late to start exercising.
It's never too late to start reaping the benefits of exercise. Even if you haven't been active in the past, beginning a fitness routine can still improve your health and quality of life. I am a former smoker. I started lifting weights and training regularly when I was 47 years old. Before that I had never even joined a gym or picked up a weight in my entire life.
Myth: Aging means inevitable weight gain.
Only if you do nothing. While metabolism may slow down with age, weight gain is not inevitable. By maintaining a healthy diet and staying physically active, you can manage your weight effectively as you age.
Myth: Older adults should avoid high-intensity exercise.
While high-intensity exercise may not be suitable for everyone, many older adults can safely engage in activities like HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) with proper supervision and guidance. These workouts can improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness levels.
Myth: You can't build muscle after a certain age:
While muscle-building may be slower in older adults compared to younger individuals, it's still very much possible. Strength training combined with adequate protein intake can help older adults increase muscle mass and strength.
Myth: You should rest more as you age:
While adequate rest is important for recovery, too much sedentary behavior can actually contribute to health problems such as muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and decreased flexibility. Maintaining an active lifestyle with appropriate rest periods is key to overall health and fitness.
Don't believe the myths...
By debunking these myths and adopting a proactive approach to health and fitness, older adults can enjoy a higher quality of life and maintain independence as they age.
If something I said resonated with you please follow my instagram and facebook pages and subscribe so you know when a new blog post goes up. Reach out if you want to connect directly.
Like what you read? Then Subscribe.
Comentários