Physical decline comes with old age, and half of these cases is attributed to lack of physical activities. Many studies have proven that people over the age of 65 require adequate fitness levels more than others. This is for them to enjoy their independence, and easily recover from illness as well as reduce the risks of suffering from age-related illnesses. Note that it is never too late to get fit and healthy. Even those living in retirement communities are encouraged to engage in health and wellness activities too. Here are the benefits you will enjoy when you do so:
Increased Muscle Mass
Muscle fibers are proven to decrease with age, and in reality, as studies show, the average body loses about 3 kg of lean muscle once you hit the middle age. Those that are connected with body strength and speedy contraction are the ones greatly affected. With regular exercise, your muscle mass will increase even as you age.
Improved Bone Density
Bone density starts to decline once you turn 40, and becomes greater when you reach 50. This is why a lot of older people become susceptible to bone fractures too. If you do not want to be one of those individuals ever to suffer from bone loss and osteoporosis, you need to exercise regularly. Focus on weight-bearing exercises for better bone health and strength.
Arthritis Prevention
Many times, people who age start experiencing weaker joints. This happens most especially with a lack of exercise. Strengthen your joints and make your body supple and healthy with strengthening and aerobic exercises. You also lessen your risk of having arthritis when you do so.
Speeds up Metabolism
Lack of exercise can lead to excessive body fat levels. This is associated with deadly diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. If you want to speed up your metabolism, by burning body fat, regular exercise is needed. This will surely help you maintain the weight that is recommended for your age, build, and height.
Improved Cardiorespiratory Fitness
Cardiorespiratory fitness is hard to achieve once you become older. Studies have backed up these claims. These researches have shown the importance of getting involved in exercises and physical activities though. Just by performing moderate-intensity exercises, your heart and lungs will definitely become healthier.
Keys to Getting Active
Before starting doing some physical activities in your chosen retirement community, you may want to enlist the help of their concierge services so that you can visit your doctor. This is important if you are over 40 years of age, and are suffering from a chronic illness, or when you have not been involved in regular exercise for a long period of time.
Once your doctor gives you the go signal, you can choose the activities you will surely be interested in. Swimming, cycling, and walking may be simple exercises, but they will benefit you a lot. Make sure you exercise with friends to make the endeavor even more enjoyable. Take things easy, and start slowly but surely, until you see small improvements to your overall wellbeing.
