Benefits Of Exercise For You Even When You Are Aging

Many people have the misconception that only the young should exercise and as one ages muscle mass and strength cannot be increased anymore. This has been negated by various studies in Harvard and other places. It is plain myth and has no scientific basis. The benefits of exercise are many and here are a few of them.

With aging comes slowing metabolism, accumulation of fat, clogged arteries, hypertension, thinning bones, sagging muscles and skin, and a lot of other conditions. Exercise can slow down the onset of these conditions. So who said that those beyond 50 should not exercise anymore? In fact, exercise can slow down or even reverse these unwanted conditions.

Regular and age-appropriate exercise can help aging people retard the onset of various age-related ailments. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, aerobic or oxygen enhancing exercise done 15-60 minutes a few days a week is a great boost to one’s health.

The safe maximum heart rate is 220 beats minus your present age. When you are working out, you should target an increase of between 60% and 90% of this safe maximum. What cardiovascular exercises can you do? Brisk walking for 30 minutes or three 10-minute walks per day, mild jumping jacks, gentle jogging in place, swimming, dancing are some of these exercises. These exercises ensure a healthy heart and blood vessels.

Exercises for strength building ensures toned muscles and helps maintain normal blood sugar levels. According to the National Institutes of Health, there are some 300,000 reported hospital admissions for broken hips per year. And most of these are because of senior people falling. Balance exercises can help in the maintenance of leg muscles. The incidence of falling can be greatly minimized if people have strong leg muscles.

Most elderly people complain of aching joints and limited range of movements. This can be prevented by stretching exercises. These exercises keep muscles pliant and joints lubricated. Doing these simple exercises will greatly aid in the onset of joint-related illnesses and will assist them in their mobility and the performance of their daily activities.

One should avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Endurance exercises helps the heart and the lungs function more efficiently and effectively. Increasing metabolic rate helps the body produce the chemicals needed for proper functioning.

A lot of illnesses are preventable with the proper exercise and activities. Osteoporosis and its debilitating effects can be minimized. The physically active are less likely to develop non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Even a lot of heart ailments can be put off with mild and regular activity.

Many elderly people experience episodes of depression and low morale because they are left with no family and friends most of the time. There is evidence that with mild and regular exercise, these episodes are minimized.

A word of caution for the elderly people. Do always consult a doctor or trainer first before embarking on any set of physical activities. This is especially so for those who have stayed sedentary for a long time. Proper guidance is necessary in order to build up endurance and strength.

For those with medical conditions, it is crucial to talk with your physician first. Consult a sports expert. He will be able to guide and make the appropriate exercise routine for your maximum benefit. Get started today so that you can reap the benefits of exercise. While you are here, why not check out one of the top rated abs program from Michael Gear. If you are looking for great abs, click here to get started…

Technorati Tags: benefits of exercise, Fitness, Health, Muscle, Physical exercise