0 The Many Benefits Of Fitness Over 40

By Nora Jennings


Age creeps up on everybody and once the magic age of forty is reached, the body changes. People of forty and older quickly learn that they are not able to do the same things they used to do so effortlessly when they were younger. However, staying fit remains a priority for those that wants to remain healthy and active. Fitness over 40 is definitely not a myth. It is possible to remain in top form, but it is necessary to change the way one exercises.

After forty, the supportive network of the body, that is the tendons, ligaments and cartilage, becomes less elastic. The chances for injury increases dramatically and that is why it is necessary to change from high impact exercises to low impact exercises. Running and aerobics, for example, need to make way for swimming and walking. Cycling and yoga are also excellent choices for those older than forty.

It is very important to focus upon strength exercises once the age of forty is reached. This is because the body starts to lose muscle weight as one grown older and the metabolism also slows down. The only way in which to prevent muscle loss is to do strength training. This type of exercise also increases the elasticity of the joints. It has proven to increase bone density too.

Numerous studies have been conducted to determine the effect of exercise on those older than forty. It has been proven that active people live longer than those that do not get any exercise. Active people are also less prone to heart disease, diabetes and asthma when they grow older. People that exercise are also less likely to become obese and they generally enjoy a better quality of life.

Some people see exercise as a punishment. This should certainly not be the case. Being fit is a joy and it allows people to enjoy life to the full. It is not necessary to subscribe to rigorous exercise routines to get fit. Many ordinary activities such as playing golf, walking the dog or working in the garden can help people to remain in shape.

Because the body grows less elastic after the age of forty it is vital to perform stretching exercises before undertaking any strenuous activity. Stretching will help prevent injury to the joints, ligaments and cartilage. Stretching should even be done prior to everyday activities such as working in the garden or taking the dog for a walk. In fact, stretching can be done at any time, even when it is not going to be followed by exercise.

Anyone contemplating a new exercise routine should consider a consultation with a doctor. This is especially important for people that are overweight or that suffer from a chronic disease and that use medication on a regular basis. It may also be helpful to approach a fitness professional for advice on a healthy exercise regime. Some people find it easiest to join an exercise club as has become popular in Atlanta GA.

Getting fit should never be a punishing chore. It can be fun and it can add zest to life. Fit people not only live longer, they also live better. They can achieve more and they are less likely to contract diseases such as heart conditions and diabetes.




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