The Many Benefits Of Fitness Over 40

By Nora Jennings


Age happens to everybody and many people resent the fact that their bodies refuse to perform in the same way it used to once they reach the magic age of forty. It is nevertheless perfectly possible to remain fit and active in middle age and beyond. Fitness over 40 simply means that a different approach must be taken. The body changes and it is necessary to adapt exercise routines to those changes.

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.

Experts agree that stretching exercise become even more important after the age of forty. Because the supportive network of the body is less elastic, even low impact exercises can cause strain and injury. The solution is to stretch often and definitely before doing any exercise, even informal exercises such as gardening. Stretching exercises not only prevent injuries but also help to improve flexibility.

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 be a very important priority for all people aged forty or above. Fit people simply enjoy a better quality of life and they live longer than their unfit peers. Getting fit can be fun and it can do wonders for the self esteem.




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