Fitness is for everybody, regardless of age. A good fitness routine can make a significant difference not only in your flexibility and the way you feel but your health in general, too. Of course, you know that it’s the best way to lose weight as well. There’s absolutely no drawback to staying active. However, you might not feel that way, especially if you have had a sedentary lifestyle for a while now.
But have you stopped to ask yourself why you quit your fitness routine in the first place? It’s most likely because you’ve heard some of these myths about fitness and aging that have been going around for many years now:
“I’m Too Old to Exercise.”
Ah, one of the classics. It’s one of the things that you have been hearing from your elders, and perhaps you have absorbed it. But did you know that not moving is more detrimental to your health? Inactive people are at a higher risk of developing heart disease. They’re also more likely to take more medications than people who exercise regularly
“I’ll Only Hurt Myself.”
You are only at risk of hurting yourself if you overexert and do too much too soon. If you haven’t exercised in a while, it’s best to speak with your physician before starting any exercise program. You should also start with low-impact activities like swimming or pedaling on your stationary bike. You can also do activities like tai chi and yoga, among others.
“I Can’t Afford Going to the Gym.”
It’s an old notion that you have to shell out money and get a gym membership to be fit, but really, you don’t need that! All you need is your energy and determination, a bottle of water, and a good pair of shoes. You don’t need to enroll at a gym (although getting a personal trainer has excellent benefits and is something you should definitely consider) if you don’t have the budget for it. You can walk or jog around the neighborhood, follow those workout videos on YouTube, or download exercise apps.
Also, if you think about it, you may have extra to spare for yoga classes or the gym. You just have to give up some of that takeout coffee or eat more meals at home instead of going to restaurants. Doing so not only frees up cash for your fitness programs, but that’s also a major step towards better health.
“I Can’t Move the Way I Used to.”
There may be some truth in that, but it’s the lack of movement that contributed hugely to that. Also, who said you need to do an intense or fast workout anyway? You don’t even have to run or jump! The best exercise is the one that you can do, so if you are held back by what you think are your physical limitations, stick to activities that you can do with ease, like walking.
Conclusion
Being active even in your advanced years is a decision. It’s either you decide to stay active and healthy, or you don’t. If the above-mentioned “myths” are what’s keeping you from incorporating a light workout routine in your daily schedule, it’s time to make some changes.
Perhaps you are a bit hesitant because you believe you need guidance. That’s fine. You can always work with an intentional health and fitness coach who can help ensure that you are working out safely no matter what age you might be.
Meg Parker is a holistic health coach who can help you regain your health and energy through various services. From incredible massages to personal training and more, Meg Parker is the person to call if you want to take back the reins to your health and start being active again!
