Exercise a Top Priority: A Guide to Longevity and Vitality for over 40s

Let's face it, one aspect of life we can't avoid is the inevitable ageing of our bodies. We can influence how we age and feel, particularly when maintaining physical fitness and general health. It's time to start being about regular exercise if you're over 40. It's not just about looking nice; it's also about maintaining excellent health and feeling good by increasing vitality, even living longer, and running around with the grandchildren.

Exercise for over 40s should be a top priority

As we enter our 40s and beyond, regular exercise is just great for you (we are all told that), but we will explain more about why and how throughout this article. Several benefits are to be taken with seriousness. First, it benefits your heart (I know that) and maintains optimum cardiovascular health. Exercise keeps you flexible, stronger and limber. But it's not only physical; it's also psychological. Exercise increases brain power, making you more intelligent and sharp. Remember the mood lift. You feel lovely after working out, almost like a natural high. Exercise should thus be at the top of your to-do list if you're serious about living your best life, even if its just walking.

Exercise impact on our health

Health issues including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer are more likely to strike as we become older. Take note! When it comes to reducing these risks, regular exercise is no joke. A regular habit to exercise is important if you want to remain on top of your health and ward off any health challenges. Weight loss, normalised blood sugar and cholesterol, and reduced blood pressure are all possible outcomes of regular exercise. Bone health declines with age, therefore maintaining an active lifestyle is crucial. It aids in slowing the natural decline in bone density that occurs with age, making one less vulnerable to bone fractures and osteoporosis. So get moving and keep those bone health indices high!

Embrace Physical Activity

If you're reading because you want to exercise frequently, remember that it's always possible to start. Begin with easy activities and progressively raise the intensity as you gain stronger. Walking is a terrific place to start and has been a massive part of my fitness journey, especially in the beginning. Making modest changes, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking further away from your destination so you may walk, can add up over time.

It's critical to undergo frequent check-ups to know where you are in terms of fitness and to avoid injuries. Before beginning any new fitness plan, consult with your doctor. They can advise based on your current health situation and aspirations.

Creating a Well-Balanced Fitness Routine

It is critical to have a well-balanced fitness programme. Aerobic activities, weight training, flexibility exercises, and balancing work are typically included.

• Aerobic exercises like brisk walking, swimming, and cycling increase cardiovascular health and stamina. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic or 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly.

• Strength exercise helps to preserve muscular mass, which begins to decline naturally in your 40s. Lifting weights or performing bodyweight workouts like push-ups and squats are examples of activities. At least twice a week, try to integrate strength training workouts into your programme.

• For me, yoga and pilates have had the most impact. It increases your flexibility and core strength, lowers your injury risk, and even improves your performance in other activities. Make it a point to include flexibility exercises in your programme daily.

• Finally, as we age, balancing exercises become more vital in minimising the risk of falls and improving general stability. Tai chi and some yoga positions can help with balance.

Exercise: consistency is the key

The best guideline for achieving long-term health advantages is consistency in exercise. To make consistency simpler, find a hobby that you like. You're more likely to adhere to a habit if it's enjoyable and exciting, whether dancing, hiking, or participating in a group activity.

Consider finding an exercise partner or joining a community with similar fitness aspirations. The companionship may enhance your fitness journey and add an added degree of accountability. MeetsUp is a great way to find local people with the same interests.

Clink on the link below for our article on 7 Hacks for Staying Strong, Healthy and Energised

https://www.feelgood40plus.com/post/fit-after-40-7-hacks-for-staying-strong-healthy-and-energised

The Mind-Body Relationship

Exercise has a significant impact on mental well-being in addition to physical advantages. Regular physical exercise can assist people in their 40s in managing stress, anxiety, and sadness, which are common concerns linked to life transitions. Mindfulness-based exercises like mindful walking or yoga can boost these mental health advantages.

Last thoughts

Keeping active and feeling comfortable in your skin is more important than being the quickest or strongest. Begin small, be persistent, and have fun on your road to a healthier, happier self.