EXERCISE FOR 50+ Aging is a natural process of life that we cannot prevent from happening. As we age unfortunately our risk of disease increases as our physiological functioning decreases. We have a loss of bone mineral density especially from the ages of 50-60 which increases our risk of osteoporosis. Additionally to this, it is common for our muscle strength to decrease, cardiovascular system to become weaker and our fitness to decline. All of these can lead to a reduced quality of life, shorter life expectancy and increased risk of disease. Exercise becomes less and less about getting shredded abs and more about being able to perform daily tasks with ease.
So how can you reduce this gradual decline in functioning? The answer is simple- EXERCISE! Exercise is more than just a facilitator to weight loss, it has been proven to improve quality of life and reduce risk of disease.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) causes the most deaths per year worldwide and especially in Australia. The BIGGEST risk factor for CVD is physical inactivity, the second highest is excessive sitting for more than 5 hours per day. Other risk factors include: High blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity, ALL of which can be reduced with exercise!
The following is a list of the benefits of exercise to CVD. Reduction in cardiac risk factors:
• Hypertension
• Visceral and general obesity
• Hyperinsulinemia
• Insulin resistance
• Dyslipidemia
Exercise doesn't just reduce your risk of CVD though, it has numerous other benefits including; decreased risk of depression, decreased risk of sleep apnoea, increased fitness, increased muscle mass and increase quality of life.
Don't let age deter you! Many studies have been conducted on individuals 90+ that have shown exercise to still increase muscle mass and improve physical and mental functioning. So stay ahead of the ageing process, keep active and keep moving, don't let it come to a heart attack or stroke to snap you into shape. Change your life today!
Melissa Juergens
*Disclaimer: Individual results vary based on agreed goals. Click here for details.
