subject: Starting Exercise at 50 [print this page] If you're aged fifty or above and thinking about embarking on a new exercise regime, the first thing to do is to congratulate yourself! Exercise plays a crucial role in keeping our bodies fit and healthy and can help you enjoy a healthier, longer life if kept up - and done correctly.
At fifty, while you may not feel very old, your body will have become less capable as it was during younger years. This doesn't mean you can't exercise, nor does it mean you have to shy away from high impact activity if you think you've got it in you - but it does mean that you need to take it slowly and work your way up to the harder stuff instead of jumping right in. In order to begin an exercise regime that you can cope with and enjoy several times a week, it's necessary to first find out what type of exercise suits you best.
Not everybody will be able to start karate at fifty, but if you find you can take knocks and bangs without getting injured, you could find yourself working your way up to black belt and enjoying myriad health benefits too! Of course, there are plenty of other exercise forms that may be more suited to your body's current strength, fitness and capacity. Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise that can be taken up at any age with minimal risk of injury. It's a low impact sport that puts virtually no strain on your bones, which is why it's so good for people with poor bone strength or bad joints that are unable to take up more strenuous activities like running. Other forms of exercise include yoga, which not only improves your overall fitness, but works at ironing out stiffness, increasing flexibility, and even improving your state of mind. There are plenty of yoga classes available in a variety of styles that are well worth trying out, so why not try out a few to see how it suits you?
If you're really not sure how much you're up for heartier exercise, why not start simple? Just by going for a half hour walk every day, you'll burn calories, tone muscles and start to feel better almost instantly. Walking is the perfect exercise for someone just getting back into the groove of moving their body - and the calmness and serenity of heading out for a walk does wonders for your peace of mind. Or, if you prefer, go with a friend and catch up during what will soon turn into exercise sessions you look forward to!
Starting an exercise regime at fifty or older needn't be daunting, though it is advisable to go for a health screening if you're unsure about anything. Otherwise, good luck on your programme and enjoy your healthier, happier body!
