Benefits of physical fitness as you grow older
Benefits of physical fitness as you grow older
Physical health benefits of regular activity in older adults
• Exercise helps older adults maintain weight
> An individual's metabolism naturally decreases as he/she grows older. This results in abnormal weight changes in human body. Physical activity helps in maintaining steady metabolism and balanced weight. An individual with appropriate weight will be free from diseases and can resist the effects of disease causing factors.
• Exercise reduces the impact of illness and chronic disease
> Physical fitness benefits for adults over 50 include better immunity, good heart condition, regulated blood pressure and improved bone density. Adults who exercise regularly also have lower risk of attacks from chronic diseases like diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis and certain type of cancers.
Mental health benefits of exercise and fitness as you age
• Exercise improves sleep
> Regardless of age, having a good quality of sleep is very important for overall physical and emotional well-being. The symptoms of insomnia and sleeplessness become more predominant as people grow older. Physical fitness not only improves sleep but also helps in regulating the sleeping patterns.
• Exercise boosts mood and self-confidence
> Physical fitness relieves stress and helps to produce endorphins. The produced endorphins brings down the feelings of depression, sadness and anxiety. Being strong and feeling active will naturally keep a person in good mood and feel more confident.
Safety tips for physical exercise as you grow older
• Get medical clearance
> Before starting an exercise program get medical clearance from the doctor. This helps to decide which physical activity is more suitable in the daily regime.
• Consider health concerns
> One has to keep in mind how the ongoing program can effect the body. For example, people with diabetes, need to adjust with timing of medication and meal plans while planning an exercise schedule. In case, if there is a sharp pain or unusual shortness of breath, simply avoid the exercise and try another one.
• Commit to exercise schedule
> One must make an habit of exercising regularly and stick with it. This can be made easy if one finds activities which are simple and convenient.
• Older adults must perform activities that give them more joy and happiness. It is important for them to incorporate these exercises in their daily routine.
• In case of older adults, a few simple stretches of exercise is enough to make a big difference in their everyday living.
Having a more active lifestyle is important while aging. With regular physical fitness one can increase energy, maintain independence and have good mental health. An individual with both mental and physical fitness will lead a happy life.
