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As
we age,
it becomes apparent that we need
to take more exercise in order
to keep out fitness levels up.
Our levels of energy and capacity
for movement are higher when we
are younger and we generally have
more stamina.
At 40+ our metabolism begins to
slow down and our level of fitness
slowly decreases with each passing
year. In order to maintain a healthy
lifestyle we need to take regular
exercise although this needn't
be formal 'gym' type exercise.
Walking, cycling and swimming
are all excellent ways of building
up fitness and can help ward off
conditions such as osteoporosis
and weakened muscles, especially
if you do a 'sit down' job. If
you enjoy the gym then try to
go as often as you can (at least
once a week for any benefit) but
if its not for you then try to
exercise little and often.
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Walking up and down stairs in your home
is good cardiovascular exercise and
improves muscle tone and strength in
the legs. Polishing a large table uses
arm and shoulder movement, as does hovering.
You may enjoy dancing to an old favourite
song or two - until you are just beginning
to breathe hard, then slow down for
a few minutes to something with less
tempo.
Marching is also a great way to get
fit and can be fun in your own living
room - put on a brisk tune and off you
go. To ward off the aches and pains
that often begin in the forties you
really need to stay as supple as possible,
gentle stretching exercises will help
- yoga and tai chi are fantastic for
this age group and are highly recommended
by doctors.
But do remember that around this age,
problems, such as arthritis, can occur
and you should always pay attention
to a persistent pain in a muscle or
joint and mention it to your GP.
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Sadly,
most of us these days have a higher
cholesterol level
than is good for us - convenience
foods, takeaways and luxury foods
all push our levels up beyond
what is safe.
However there are simple ways
to help lower your cholesterol
level - simply switching some
of your everyday items can really
make a dramatic difference.
Look out for the Flora Pro-Active
range in the supermarket and try
to include a pro-biotic such as
Benecol in your diet. Making these
small changes will really pay
dividends as they have been scientifically
proven to lower cholesterol.
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Ever
thought of becoming a volunteer?
Psychologists reckon that giving up
some of your spare time to a good cause
has positive health benefits and can
help improve depression, loneliness
and self confidence. Doing something
worthwhile helps us appreciate our self
worth and can boost our self esteem.
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Also, mixing in an environment beyond our
job or home life keeps us alert and improves
our social skills. If you can find time there
are numerous charities crying out for help
- choose one you may have a connection with
and be careful not to over commit yourself
at first. And remember, its not just for the
middle aged, there are many youngsters helping
out in all sorts of ways, although you'll
be welcome no matter what your age. It seems
that by helping others we can really help
ourselves - a win, win situation for all.
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