Aging and Fitness
Aging > Aging and Fitness
Aging, and the effects of it, are something that we all must face as we grow older. One of the things that it is important to maintain as aging takes place is your level of fitness and activity. The more physical activity that you have in your life during the aging process the more likely you are to avoid the problems that can occur when you are inactive.
There are many physical and emotional problems that can occur during aging. The more active you are the more chance you have of keeping on top of these problems and not having them affect you in your later years in life. Many of the physical and emotional problems of aging include depression, hip and joint problems, arthritis, heart problems, breathing problems, and lack of mobility or flexibility. During the aging process starting some type of fitness program should first require a visit to your doctor so that you can make sure that whatever activity you are planning to add to your lifestyle is doctor approved. You want to be sure that your physical condition is going to allow you to safely incorporate fitness into your lifestyle and the aging of your body. Once your doctor has approved your decision to add some type of activity into your life you can start by slowly making changes in your daily routine so that you can make changes in a positive and healthy manner.
One of the best activities during the aging process is swimming or some other type of aquatic activity. Swimming is a great aerobic activity but at the same time it is gentle which is important if you have joint problems, arthritis, or any other motion conditions. Keep in mind that swimming does not help in the rebuilding of your bones which is a very important aging issue on the minds of many doctors. If swimming isn’t an activity for you, you may want to consider adding walking to your daily routine. Walking for at least 20 minutes every day is a great way to start moving without doing something too strenuous right at the beginning of your new fitness routine. Walking is another gentle activity and can be done at your own pace.