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.

Many studies have shown that those over the age of forty that exercises regularly live longer than those that get no or very little exercise. Many people follow strict exercise regimes earlier in their lives because they want to look good. After the age of forty the focus changes. Exercise then serve to help prevent disease and to maintain a steady weight.

Too many people consider exercise to be a punishment. It does not have to be. Getting and remaining fit should be a pleasure. People older than forty do not need to join a gymnasium. They simply need to take up a sport or hobby that will get them moving. Even regular walks with the dog, household chores such as vacuuming and gardening can help people to remain physically active.

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.

It is advisable to book a consultation with a doctor before taking up a new exercise routine. This is especially important if there was a long period of inactivity. It is vital for those suffering from any chronic medical condition and those that are overweight. It may also be a good idea to hire the services of a fitness expert in Atlanta GA order to devise an exercise program.

It is never too late to start an exercise regime. When one reaches the age of forty, it becomes even more important to take steps to prevent the body from losing muscle and tone. Fitter people live longer and they live better. Even those that have never exercised regularly should seriously consider a fitness program when they reach middle age.




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