Making exercise your priority
As we get older, it can be easy to let our health and fitness fall by the wayside. We may have more responsibilities and less free time, or we may just not feel as motivated to exercise as we used to. However, it's important to remember that exercise is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental health, especially as we age.
First and foremost, exercise can help seniors stay strong and independent. As we age, our muscle mass naturally decreases, and regular exercise can help combat this process. By staying active, seniors can maintain their strength and mobility, which can help them continue to do the things they love and live independently for longer. Exercise can also help seniors prevent falls and other accidents, which can be especially important as balance and coordination can decline with age.
But the benefits of exercise go beyond just physical health. Regular exercise has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost self-esteem. It can also help seniors sleep better and maintain cognitive function.
So how can seniors make exercise a priority in their lives? One option is to find activities that are enjoyable and make exercise feel like less of a chore. This could be anything from taking a more vigorous walk with a friend to joining a dance class. It's also important to find activities that are appropriate for one's fitness level and to start slowly, gradually increasing intensity as strength and endurance improve.
Another option is to make exercise a part of one's daily routine. This could mean setting aside a specific time of day for a walk or workout, or finding ways to incorporate activity into one's daily life, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a bike ride. Making exercise a priority, just as you would booking a medical appointment, is more beneficial than you might think.
It's also important for seniors to check with their doctor before starting any new exercise routine, especially if they have any underlying health conditions. All of our health & fitness professionals here at Boxing 4 Health are here to help and they can also help determine what types of exercises are safe and most beneficial for you to be doing.
Finding a health professional to work with can help you stay accountable and make sure you are achieving your goals this year.
My best advice to you is to write down your dream because then it becomes a goal. A goal broken down into steps becomes a plan. So make those steps you need to get to your goal. This part is vital. A plan backed by action becomes reality.
Exercise is crucial as we age to maintain both physical and mental health. It's never too late to start making it a priority, and with a little bit of effort and creativity, it can be easy to incorporate into one's daily life. Don't let age be an excuse - start moving and feeling your best today.
xo
Christine