I am a personal fitness trainer at a private country club, where the average age of the clientele is 70. After spending years among this population, I see firsthand that the club members who exercise regularly are much more independent and in remarkably better physical condition than the members who don’t work out.
So many elderly people are afraid of getting hurt during a workout””but the truth is, not exercising is more likely to cause harm.
My oldest client is 90 years old and trains with me twice per week, for 30 minutes at a time. Despite his age, he is able to do almost anything I challenge him to do””whether it’s balance work or light weight-training. He stands in stark contrast to the members who are years younger than he is, yet can’t even walk without a nurse by their side.
Staying active as the years progress will keep you in that golf or tennis game as your contemporaries give it up””plus, you’ll have the energy to keep up with your grandkids (even great-grandkids!).
Exercise and physical activity are not only beneficial to us physically, but also mentally. Regular exercise can enhance mood and help reduce feelings associated with depression. Regular exercise is also associated with lower blood pressure and improved balance.
I challenge everyone to stay healthy and fit””no matter what your age!
Get fitness and sports nutrition tips from personal trainer Deniz Duygulu, an International Federation of BodyBuilders Men’s Physique pro athlete. Like Deniz on Facebook to watch videos demonstrating correct form and for advice on fueling effectively.