Myth -- 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.
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.
One goal among others is to raise the heart rate to 60-90% of the safe maximum (220 beats per minute, minus your present age). A good cardiovascular workout - a 30-minute brisk walk or three 10-minute walks per day, mild jumping jacks, gentle jogging in place, swimming, a dance routine or any other method - helps keep the heart and blood vessels healthy.
Other exercises that strengthen the muscles act to keep it toned while keeping weight down and blood sugar at appropriate levels. Exercises that develop balance can help strengthen the muscles found in the legs, which can better support the body and reduce the likelihood of falling. This is good, especially since a good majority of broken hips among the elderly is a result from the elderly falling.
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.
Exercises that develop endurance keep both the lungs and the heart healthy. The joints are able to move to the full range of movements that they can, and the muscles are kept firm and toned. The increased metabolism that is encouraged by exercise can stimulate the release of hormones. This can improve the performance of the body, and can even lengthen the amount of time that these organs are able to perform in top shape.
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 -- 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.
If you have a medical condition, be sure to discuss your plans with a physician and sports expert to develop an exercise routine appropriate to you.
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.
One goal among others is to raise the heart rate to 60-90% of the safe maximum (220 beats per minute, minus your present age). A good cardiovascular workout - a 30-minute brisk walk or three 10-minute walks per day, mild jumping jacks, gentle jogging in place, swimming, a dance routine or any other method - helps keep the heart and blood vessels healthy.
Other exercises that strengthen the muscles act to keep it toned while keeping weight down and blood sugar at appropriate levels. Exercises that develop balance can help strengthen the muscles found in the legs, which can better support the body and reduce the likelihood of falling. This is good, especially since a good majority of broken hips among the elderly is a result from the elderly falling.
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.
Exercises that develop endurance keep both the lungs and the heart healthy. The joints are able to move to the full range of movements that they can, and the muscles are kept firm and toned. The increased metabolism that is encouraged by exercise can stimulate the release of hormones. This can improve the performance of the body, and can even lengthen the amount of time that these organs are able to perform in top shape.
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 -- 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.
If you have a medical condition, be sure to discuss your plans with a physician and sports expert to develop an exercise routine appropriate to you.
About the Author:
As you can see, there are different fitness workouts available. Each of them has their own pros and cons. Click to visit http://www.homefitnessinsider.com to find out more and learn how drinking water and health are related.
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