Physical Fitness:
Once you are retired it is even more important to keep your body in motion. Nothing keeps you mobile, healthy, and happy better than a bit of exercise.
Something as simple as taking a walk daily can help prevent painful arthritis symptoms, achy joints, and stiff muscles.
Just because you are getting older doesn’t mean you have to slow to a stop and be sedentary. Too often people make the mistake of singularly focusing on diet and take exercise right out of the equation. This can lead to weight gain, lack of energy, and overall frustration when the results that were expected are not coming to fruition. Did you know you can still do most of the exercises you’ve always done?
Here are the benefits of continued exercise as you age.
- Squats – for older individuals, squats activate both core and leg muscles, helps with posture and balance, and helps preserve bone density. You can always modify your squat if you have balance issues. Try holding on to the back of a chair for balance.
- Free Weights – resistance exercise helps prevent age related chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Some studies have even shown it increases life span!
- Walking – working out doesn’t always need to be hardcore. A brisk walk can strengthen your heart, sharpen your mind, and fortify your bones.
- Lunges – as you get older lunges are great for strengthening your lower body and maintaining everyday mobility.
- Push-ups – if you want a full body workout with no equipment then push-ups are the way to go. Be prepared to build muscle, raise your metabolism, and reap the cardiovascular benefits.
Remember almost all exercises have modifications. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it. If you are feeling intimidated, loop in a spouse or friend as an accountability partner. Consult your doctor before adding any new physical activities into your routine.
Mental Fitness:
While the importance of physical fitness is known to many, too often mental fitness gets overlooked. Challenge your mind to try something you’ve never done before. This could be taking a class, joining a local club, or participating in an upcoming community event. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, it could be as simple as yoga in the park. Science has shown that spending time in nature has positive effects on the brain.
The correlation between physical fitness and mental fitness is unmistakable. You’ll feel better, have more energy, and you may even find you sleep better. Lack of exercise opens yourself up to risk of many conditions and diseases.
Motivation is key, setting goals can keep you on target. Your goals should be tailored to you and the lifestyle you want. It can be to do 10 unassisted push-ups or to get out in nature 3 times a week. Whatever it is, it’s important to be safe in everything you do. Aging doesn’t mean weakness and fitness isn’t just for weight loss. Keep your mind sharp and your body healthy so you can live your retired life to the fullest. Work is done, let the fun begin!
