Starting an Exercise Program After 50 Where to Begin
Physical activity is important at every age. But if you’re starting an exercise program after 50 there are a few things to know before you begin.
Exercising doesn’t have to be difficult but it may require a little knowledge to do it right. We put together 5 things to know before you begin your mid life exercise regimen.
Intro: Starting an Exercising Program Over 50
The body goes through even more changes over 50 than when you experienced puberty. It can seem almost like an appliance whose warranty has just expired. Everything that can go wrong seems to start going wrong. And though you’re not a car engine your body is a machine.
To keep it running in tiptop condition it needs the right amount of care and attention. When we in our twenties, we could go without paying a lot of attention to the care of our body. But when we reach fifty lack of exercise can have a profound effect on us.
The good news… the body responds well to starting an exercise program if you’re over 50, 60, 70 and beyond.
The body loves and responds well to good food, lots of movement with a balance of relaxation. You can feel invigorated even after you get older, but we can all use a little more wisdom about how to keep your body running smoothly.
So let’s learn the five things to do before you begin an exercise program, especially if you have been living a sedentary life for some time.
1. Visit Your Doctor Before Starting a New Exercise Routine
As we age, our bodies change. And though it’s unlikely that any Dr will advise against exercise it is advised to make sure you get a check up for your begin. Checking with a doctor will give you the peace of mind. This is a time to discuss any pain such as knee or upper body injuries (such as back) and any prior health issues. Once you get the okay you’ll know what are the best exercises to do. Or if there is anything you need to avoid when starting exercise after 50.
2. Know Your Limitations and What’s Best for You
No one likes to admit that there are things they can’t do but it will keep you from getting injured or worse. If you have joint problems, find exercises that work the muscles without putting undue stress on the knees, hips, shoulders, lower back, or elbows.
3. Start Slow and Increase Day by Day When Starting Exercise After 50
Slow and steady really does win the race – one that will allow us to enjoy life as we age. You are more likely to stick with physical activity when you ease into it and find your own comfortable pace.
4. Discover the Best Activities for Your Ability and Health
Learning the best activities will help you choose the best activities. If you have arthritis, signing up for a step aerobics class may not be the wisest thing. Based on your medical clearance and any limitations you currently have, choose an exercise that will give you the benefits without causing you further injury or distress.
5. Eating Well and Managing Your Weight
All the exercise in the world won’t help you if you are still eating fried junk foods you enjoyed in your younger years. Start your day with daily rituals. This may include practising good habits such a stretching, hydrating and taking any necessary supplements. Eating the right food to support your body and manage your weight is an excellent practise when you are starting an exercise program after 50, or at any age.
This is a time to discover and enjoy good food and diets like the Mediterranean plan, drinking healthy shakes and taking supplements. Make every move and meal count towards your good health.
Concluding Starting an Exercise Program After 50
Just because you are in mid life it doesn’t mean it’s time to slow down. In fact it’s quite the opposite. Starting an exercise program of changing up you current one will help you to achieve more of what you want in life.
This is a time to travel, have fun, spend time with the ones you love and do all the things that expected to do in mid life. So begin today by taking the steps to strengthen your mind, body and soul to live a happy and healthy life now and into retirement.