Exercises That Transition Through Every Age
By Genevieve Cunningham
Exercise is important; we all know this. When we’re young and healthy, exercise is easy, too. Running a mile or joining a yoga class … these things are not intimidating or even difficult for the younger generation. But exercise is important for every person, no matter their age or physical condition. So what can we do? How do we make sure that our exercise habit makes it through each stage of life, ensuring better health for a lifetime? If you’re ready to make a fitness plan that sticks, take a look at these workouts that can transition easily through each and every stage of life.
Walking
Walking is an excellent way to exercise, as it fits almost every person and almost every age. While many people feel as though running is the better workout, it’s also harder on the joints and body as a whole. But walking is low-impact enough to participate in right now as well as long into the future. Modify it based on your needs, and you’re good to go. When you’re young and in great shape, try a tough trail or walk uphill. When you’re older or suffering from poor health, walk on a flat surface at your own pace. Easy, inexpensive, and a great way to boost health for a lifetime.
Swimming
Swimming is easy on the body, especially on the joints. And since joint pain is a common aspect of aging, this activity can be done as we get older. You’ll just need to modify the length of the swim, possibly the stroke, and minor details to fit your body’s needs at the time. Think of swimming as timeless … start using it as exercise as soon as you know how to swim, and then alter it through each stage of life.
Lifting Weights
This may not sound like something that can be done at any age, but it is. The key is to change it up. When you’re younger, it may be possible to lift heavy and really sculpt the body. As you age, it might be necessary to switch to lighter dumbbells or machine weights. Weights are actually incredibly important to maintain strength, especially since strength naturally diminishes with each year that passes by. Make this a part of your fitness routine now, and you’ll be pleased with the results in the future.
There’s no excuse for missing out on exercise. With just a little planning, it can be done at any age. Use these workouts as a guide to get you moving down a healthy path. They might help you get fit now, as well as boost your health for years to come.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Collierville, Tenn.