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Despite this, there are still some stereotypes that exist in our heads, according to Psychology Today. One way to dispel the negativity that is often associated with growing older is to keep as fit and healthy as possible. Regular exercise will not only promote longevity, but also make you mentally stronger, and thus more willing and capable to reject any adverse stereotypes surrounding your age. Even if you have never exercised before, you will be able to benefit from regular exercise as well as a basic understanding of the importance of it.
Although it would be wonderful if only one exercise benefited every part of your body, it simply isn’t possible. Resistance exercises such as lunges, squats, and push-ups help strengthen muscles all over the body, especially the back and abdomen. They also reduce the risk of back injury while making it easier to perform day-to-day tasks, such as picking up things from the floor or tying your shoelaces. By building your core strength and improving your flexibility with exercises such as pilates and yoga, you can give your posture a welcome boost, while also making yourself more agile. This will reduce your risk of trips and falls, both of which become a major concern as you age.
Cardio exercises such as swimming, dancing and walking have numerous benefits for seniors, and can even reduce the prevalence of a range of worrisome ailments. Engaging in regular cardio exercise will improve your blood circulation, bone density, and muscle strength, thus reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Cardio workouts have also been found to improve mental health by preventing anxiety, mood swings, and depression, which often presents themselves in ageing individuals. One of the greatest appeals of cardio exercise, apart from the health benefits, is that you don’t need a lot of money to partake in activities such as walking, jogging, and even swimming. Even on the smallest of budgets, you will be able to exercise enough to grow fit and strong well into your sixties.
Exercising alone is never fun, regardless of how old you are. Not only is exercising with a friend much more enjoyable, but it also gives you peace of mind knowing there will be someone with you should you need assistance. Walking, swimming and water aerobics, dancing, and exercises classes such as Zumba are not only beneficial to your fitness levels but very social as well. You can also put a very enjoyable competitive spin on your exercise regime by downloading a social fitness app such as inKin, and start competing in a number of challenges with your friends. Whether you choose to partake in a step, minutes active, or sleep challenges, you are bound to have more fun than trying to get fit on your own.
As important as exercise is to the ageing body, so too is a healthy diet. If you are trying to shed a few excess pounds, your dietary choices become increasingly important, as you will never be able to burn more calories than you consume. The consumption of alcohol, excess saturated fat, carbs and sugar, in particular, can lead to unhealthy weight gain and a host of secondary health concerns, such as heart disease and high blood pressure. Aim to eat regular, healthy meals consisting of lean protein, fruits and vegetables, and low-GI grains and legumes, and drink plenty of water to ensure that your body has the correct fuel to get through the day.
If you want to live a long and happy life, you need to exercise regularly. While no one will expect you to run marathons or enter strong-man competitions, you can stay fit even by only engaging in simple exercises such as walking, swimming and dancing.
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