Aging is a natural process, and with it comes many fringe benefits. For example, living the retired-permanent-holiday life, a gained respect from youngsters, and you can’t forget the senior discounts. However, with aging also comes an immense amount of responsibility. This responsibility not only includes influencing the future generations, but also extends to the need of taking care of yourself. One of the common reasons why many young people dread growing old is because it is associated with being brittle, weak, dependant, and ill. Seniors need to prove to everyone that they are a vibrant and vital part of the population, and being fit is the first step.
Now I’m not asking everyone to tell his or her elderly family members to hit the gym for three hours every single day. But let’s face the facts: a significant percentage of older adults do not get the physical exercise they need, lack of physical activity combined with a poor diet is the second most common reason for death in the USA, and being fit can reduce the risk of many diseases. Seniors are quickly becoming the fastest growing demographic in both Canada and the USA, and we cannot afford to have such a large percentage of the population to be of poor health.
Before diving into an intense regime though, seniors should consult medical professionals on any physical problems they may have that could inhibit exercise. They should also ensure to use the required safety equipment, such as helmets, or eye protection. Stretching before exercising is also recommended. One of the most important things is to know your own limit – do not overstrain yourself.
Many people today put off exercising because it seems like a chore to some. Fitness should not be forced activities that your doctor pushes you to complete. It should be FUN. You can make it an enjoyable social occurrence, by getting away from traditional methods. Instead of running on a treadmill watching Oprah reruns, and lifting weights listening to a looped playlist, make exercising more interesting. Seniors should take advantage of the retired lifestyle, and use their newfound time to go hiking on trails with beautiful scenery, or biking along the lake. Make healthier lifestyle choices to encourage physical activity – take the stairs instead of the elevator, park your car further away from the mall entrance. Exercising should not be just another addition to your daily To Do list; it should be viewed as a transition into a healthier, longer, and more fulfilled life.
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