Aging is inevitable but we can control how we age with some careful lifestyle changes. Regular physical activity is closely linked to healthy aging. The best part is, it’s never too late to begin an exercise routine that matches your fitness level and abilities. A gentle, low-impact programme can not only keep you strong and full of energy, but also boost your confidence and help you stay socially connected.
Always get advice from your doctor before taking on a new physical activity.
The benefits of regular activity
Regular exercise may help to prevent or delay many diseases and disabilities. It may reduce the impact of illness or chronic disease as well as improve immunity. It can help lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis as well as Alzheimer’s Disease.
Important benefits of exercise include an increase in strength as well as improved balance, flexibility and posture, which helps with endurance, co-ordination and the avoidance of falls. A regular workout may also help alleviate sleeplessness.
Exercising also helps to produce endorphins – “feel good” hormones, which uplift you and give you more energy.
Tips for older adults
- Prevent injury by warming up before exercising and cooling down and stretching after your training session.
- Incorporate aerobic exercise, which increases your heart rate (brisk walking, swimming or cycling) and strength training (weights and resistance bands) in your regime, as well as exercises to improve your balance and flexibility (stretching). Start by attempting ten minutes of exercise at a time and build up your routine to about 150 minutes a week.
- Avoid post-exercise stiffness and discomfort by massaging MYO2 Recovery Gel into muscles and joints before training for support and then again after working out for rapid, post-exercise recovery. In addition to Arnica (which is a well-known anti-inflammatory), MYO2 also contains Horse Chestnut. The active components of Horse chestnut (escin and flavonoids) are anti-inflammatory while also toning and strengthening blood vessel walls. This enhances the recovery of damaged or inflamed soft tissue, providing pain relief.
- MYO2 may be suitable for the symptomatic relief of pain and discomfort associated with sports injuries, back and neck pain, joint sprains and inflammation and muscular spasm.
- Remain hydrated during your workout. The refreshing MYO2 Muscle Recovery and Immune Booster drink is caffeine and preservative-free and low in sugar, and perfect to add to your post-exercise recovery routine.
- Set short-term goals to keep yourself motivated and commit to exercises that you find enjoyable and sociable. Try: walking with a friend, senior sports or fitness classes, water aerobics, yoga or Tai Chi.
- Don’t overdo it – stop immediately if you feel dizzy, short of breath, chest pain/tightness, break-out in a cold sweat or any form of pain. Slight muscle stiffness is normal.
Overall, regular exercise can improve your quality of life and ensure that you remain independent for as long as possible.
