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Would you believe us if we claimed we could give you the secret to feeling 20 years younger than your chronological age? And that this secret would leave you as strong and physically capable as you were years ago? What if we also claimed that this secret would help you live longer, too? Too much to believe, right?
Not when it comes to senior fitness. And you can start at any age: whether you're still in your 40s, your 60s or 75 and older. By exercising regularly, you can maintain or, in some cases, improve the health of your arteries, bones, muscles and joints. And with these tissues in good shape, your body won't know how old you are! You can achieve the physiological health and sense of well-being of someone five, 10 or even 20 years younger; and you can help reduce your risk of debilitating disorders that tend to make people age prematurely, such as stroke, heart disease, kidney problems and even memory loss.
But doesn't growing older automatically mean growing more feeble both in mind and body? Not at all. It's inactivity that makes "old" people seem "old" whether physically or mentally. Studies of 80- and 90-year-olds living in nursing homes show that regular strength training for just two to three months was enough to make them physically stronger and more independent, as well as giving them a renewed sense of well-being and self-confidence. And researchers who study the "oldest of old" (100-year-olds) report that the overwhelming majority of them remain physically and mentally active well into their 90s in part because of good health habits such as regular physical activity.
So you truly may be able to turn back the clock. Not through those "miracle," "anti-aging" products that scam artists are always trying to sell but through sensible steps such as a healthy diet and physical exercise that keep your muscles strong and your body in tune. Don't give up on the rest of your life as an active, vigorous person because of society's misconceptions about age. And don't let a past history of poor health habits stop you, either. Just take these precautions: If you're not already a regular participant in physical exercise, or if you are 40 or older or live with a chronic condition, check with your doctor before starting any new fitness regimen. Start with a modest level of activity, then work up gradually.
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External Sources
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National Institute on Aging
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NIH Senior Health
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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