Like it or not, working out is not just for the 25-year-old hardbodies you in every other ad on TV or posing and posting on Instagram. If you’re 50 years old or over, you need to keep fit more than ever, especially as a truck driver whose health can keep you from getting a med car so you can continue working.
However, because you over 50, you shouldn’t enroll in a gym and start pumping free weights and using every machine in the place. Medical experts say one of the best things that women over 50 can do is keep moving. This doesn’t mean running a marathon. Instead, it means taking up or continuing some activities that use all of your body parts, give you an aerobic workout and can help you build strength as well.
The benefits are many:
- lowered risk of heart disease
- reduced high blood pressure
- fend off osteoarthritis
- combat the possibility of osteoporosis
- improved flexibility
- increase strength
Plus, these seven activities will also improve your mental health by reducing stress and keeping depression and loneliness at bay.
They key is not to overdo. Start slow, and as with all exercise programs, consult with your health care provider before beginning any new routines.
Walking -- simply putting one foot in front of each other -- may be one of the easiest exercises to build into your day. It improves cardiovascular fitness, fights arthritis and builds joint strength.
Riding a bike was one of the great joys of childhood. Riding one now that you’re older is good for your body. It moves your hips and knees and ankles, which is key to keeping them strong. You also improve your core by keeping your balance.
Swimming has been called the perfect exercise. It’s good for your cardiovascular system and builds muscle mass. And, it does this in water that provides resistance and takes the weight off your joints.
Walking your dog is a good way to get your mileage in each day and you get to do it with your good pal. Thinking about and keeping track of your dog also helps you focus outside yourself, which can help relieve stress.
Jogging provides the same benefits as walking, but to a greater degree. But, be sure to wear proper shoes, and look for a softer surface on which to run. Also, don’t overdo; keep track of how your body feels after each workout.
Golfing is great exercise as long as you leave the little electric cart parked at the clubhouse. Eighteen holes on a golf course is about the same as walking five miles. Carrying or pulling your clubs adds a weight component as well.
Dancing -- yes, dancing -- is good for you. Think of it as walking or jogging to music. It may be country line dancing or a Zumba class, moving to the music provides plenty of physical benefits. And, learning new moves keeps your mind active.
