We’ve heard the saying “Age is nothing but a number.” Never has that resonated more than now as I’m in my fifties and feel that I can still hang in there with the younger ones. I view getting older and staying fit as a wonderful challenge (I attribute this to my competitive nature).
We should strive to be the best version of ourselves. We may not necessarily be able to train the same way as when we were in our twenties, thirties or even forties but it doesn’t mean we can’t continue to strive to be in the best shape of our lives.
When entering our fifties, it is important to exercise on a regular basis to maintain good health. This is when cholesterol, heart disease or arthritis can become a concern. It’s important to vary our routines to keep the muscles working efficiently and to engage the brain as well.
In addition to strength training, add one or two high intensity workouts a week. Make sure to add yoga and or Pilates if you haven’t done so already. Try a new hobby such as golf or tennis.
With that said, there are no age restrictions per se as to how we should workout but there are certain aspects of fitness that we should focus on or incorporate as we get older to achieve optimal health.
Knowing that a healthy lifestyle will slow down the aging process should be great motivation to get and stay fit. If we want to compete as a bodybuilder, for example Ernestine Shepherd, an 82-year old bodybuilder and my idol, that is fine. If we want to train for a triathlon in our 60’s or 70’s, that is fine too. We just want to make sure that we are taking care of our bodies appropriately to ensure that we have the longevity that we desire.
If you’ve never worked out, it’s not too late. For most sedentary adults, it is possible to adopt a healthy lifestyle and develop good habits. With regular physical activity, proper nutrition, hydration and proper sleep patterns, we reduce the risk of developing many chronic diseases that can occur during the aging process.
Choose activities that you can enjoy and do on a regular basis. Maintaining a healthy diet is also key as well as getting the proper amount of rest.
The goal is to get active and stay active to help ensure that we do everything we can to stay healthy.
Jaena Mebane, a graduate of Fordham University-B.A., Fitness Professional, Bodybuilder and creator of GLUTEUS FABULOUS. My motto is “Inspiring Others to Live a Healthy Lifestyle, Mind, Body, and Soul.” You can find me on Instagram @gluteus_fabulous
By subscribing, you consent to receive emails from BlackDoctor.com. You may unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy & Terms of Service.
