Exercising Over 50: How to Begin

When it comes to exercising past the ages of 50 oraccomplish the rest of your daily tasks with renewed
60, many people look at gyms, yoga studios, andenergy.
health clubs with trepidation. Often, this reaction is aMany of these videos will offer beginner, intermediate
result of fear; fear of looking out of place, not knowingand advanced programs to allow for steady progress
what to do or how to do it; price can also be a majorto greater fitness.
consideration.To get started:
Unfortunately, this seems to be the time when many· Check with your physician before beginning
people seeking to improve their physical conditioningany exercise program.
say the heck with it and just take a nap or watch a· Start out slowly at a pace you can repeat
movie and eat another cookie.several days a week.
Years ago, the options for these same somewhat· Steadily increase your participation from one
determined would-be-over 50 exercisers were toor two days a week, to three and ultimately four.
workout at home. They would buy magazines on:Resting in-between workout days.
physical fitness, books on aerobics, calorie counting,· If something hurts, either don't do it or do it
muscle building, running or yoga; then came exerciseslower, or easier and allow your body to become
videos.accustomed to the new demands you're placing on it.
Today, there are daily fitness programs on cable.· Drink enough of water to replace what you
These programs cover the gamut of yoga, chairlose sweating and to flush-out toxins. This is a
exercises, aerobics, aerobics with weights, and Pilates.wonderful way to detoxify the body, burn calories and
The problem is you have to be ready to workoutgain strength and energy all at the same time.
when the TV program airs, which may or may not fit· Eat a sensible diet, reducing calories and you
your schedule.will see quick results.
Deciding what type of exercise program is right forRe-evaluate your progress every 30 days so you
you is often a daunting task for the un-initiated as well.don't settle into a comfortable routine; the body needs
For those who are too over-weight and out-of-shapeto be challenged to improve.
to begin with, running is probably out of the question.Once you can complete an exercise program with
Bicycling may be difficult as well.ease, celebrate your accomplishment and move up to
One smart alternative to get started is to purchase athe next level. This could include: standing or step
generic, aerobic chair or seated exercise video. Thisaerobics, cycling, swimming, jogging, weight lifting, etc.
will allow the newbie to break-in slowly, stay motivated,The most important things are: to start, be kind with
and progress at their own speed.yourself, if you find the exercises difficult to perform,
Seated exercises are a great way to add aerobicdon't be discouraged, be encouraged and proud that
conditioning to your daily routine, avoid damage to anyyour have taken the first step at improving your life. Be
joints, increase your metabolism to lose weight andpersistent, consistent and brave.