As we get older, staying in shape becomes more important than ever. After all, the older we get the more our bodies become susceptible to disease and injury, so, the more we can strengthen our systems, the better equipped we will be to stay resistant to these issues in our older age.
The good news is that staying in shape over the age of 70 isn’t just recommended, but it’s totally possible! Before you assume that you’ll need a full-fledged gym membership, rest assured that staying in shape doesn’t even require barbells. Here are some tips for staying active and healthy in your golden years with fairly minimal effort.
Walk More
All too often we assume that running is the only way to break a sweat. However, running is fairly rough on your knees, and isn’t recommended if you have certain health issues. Walking, on the other hand, is very gentle on your joints, and can burn a significant amount of calories if you manage to do enough of it.
Doctors recommend walking at least 30 minutes a day at a moderate pace. In other words, you don’t have to be entirely out of breath, but rather walk at a comfortable pace that is just above a stroll, yet well under speed walking. The best part about walking is that it’s something you can do with others. Whether you go for a walk in the park or walk on a treadmill, this form of low-impact exercise is easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
Mat Work
Remember those old exercise VHS videos from the 80s that all took place on a mat? The power of matwork is still very much effective. Lay down a yoga mat and practice poses that will help build your strength. From push-ups, to plank, there are plenty of strength exercises that don’t require machines or weights.
Remember, always work your way up to these exercises if at first they’re too difficult to achieve. The last thing you want to do is injure yourself as a result of rushing into your workout routine too quickly.
Eat Well
Exercise alone isn’t going to solve all of your fitness concerns. In addition to getting enough regular exercise, you also need to make sure that you’re eating well. A balanced diet full of plenty of vegetables and lean protein is critical for making sure that your exercise work pays off. After all, you can do all the exercise you want in the world, but if you eat processed foods full of high fats and sugars, then you’re going to reverse a lot of the hard work you put in. Proper nutrition will play a pivotal role in how in shape you are. So keep in mind that you can’t have one without the other!
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