Staying active as you age is an important issue. No one looks forward to a reduced ability to be active over time. In fact many individuals want to be even more active, enjoying their retirement without limitations. Yet, too often people do not prioritize being active in middle age such that after retirement, activity may not be as easy as they would like.

So, how can we stay active over time and age better?

To begin with, it starts with developing good habits in your 30s/40s BUT it is never too late to start. Don’t wait until you have time…make the time. Even if it is only 20 minutes per day – that is better than nothing. Don’t think you have the time? It is about setting priorities. If exercise and remaining active and healthy over time is important, it is absolutely possible to carve out a few minutes per day for something physical. It may be challenging to start, but after a few weeks, it will become routine AND you may actually find you feel worse when not active a day and even better when you do.

Next, keeping the body active with exercise is the BEST medicine against aging. Be it walking, cycling, lifting weights, taking a yoga class…whatever activity gets the body moving regularly and the heart pumping is excellent. Our body is made for movement so move it. Sitting all day is about the worst thing we can/could do to it.

Then, enlist a friend or accountability partner to help. By having someone exercise with you, it will hold you accountable and make sure the exercise is completed. Pick an activity both you and your partner will enjoy; this also helps with compliance.

Finally, do something that requires some strength. This does not mean you must go to the gym to lift weights, but by taxing the strength system will help to slow the rate of muscle loss which is common over time in aging individuals.

As we live longer as a society, it is important to be able to stay healthy and active. No one wants to live life sitting down. So get moving now to enjoy life for years to come.

Not sure how to best get active safely? Request a phone call or schedule a muscle and joint exam to get pointed in the right direction.