Chapter 23
Chapter 23: Staying Active as You Age .......................................................................
In This Chapter
Understanding the benefits of senior fitness
Getting started in an exercise program
Using some caution as you exercise
Knowing where to focus your efforts
Your senior years are what you’ve looked forward to all your life: retire-
ment, relaxation, and all those lovely 10-percent-off discounts! But many
seniors suffer through a variety of ailments and health problems, losing vigor
and strength too quickly.The secret to aging slowly and with good health is fitness. By staying active
as you age, you reap substantial benefits, from looking and feeling young to
staving off life-threatening diseases. In this chapter, you discover those bene-
fits, find out how to get started, and take in a few safety tips.Keeping Yourself Young with Exercise
If you’re among the many seniors who think fitness is only for a younger
crowd, think again. The Journal of Gerontologyrecently released a study
showing that people over age 60 can train just as hard as younger folks and
derive the same benefits from exercise as people far younger.The benefits of beginning or continuing to exercise in your senior years are
phenomenal, not the least of which is making you feel 10 to 25 years younger.
Consider the extent to which your life can be enhanced by the combination
of cardio workouts (like walking or cycling) and strength training (lifting
weights) several days per week:You have more energy.
You experience less depression and anxiety.You have an easier time losing weight.