As you have gotten older, have you noticed how your body seems to fight you more and more when it comes time to exercise? The bad new is, that’s what happens as we get older. The good news is that you’re in complete control more than you know. Sure our bodies of yesterday are gone forever, but then that’s the natural process of aging. But instead of focusing on the body you had, let’s focus on getting the body you have now in shape.
Think about this! A modest 3-day a week workout of walking, biking, jogging, swimming, aerobics, anything you like that’s aerobic for 20-30 minutes, is all you need to keep your body feeling energized and alive. In addition to that, you’re also keeping your heart and other bodily functions healthy. If you’re not competing in a sport, this kind of workout is an excellent maintenance workout, giving your body everything it needs to feel good about yourself as you age. Add to that a sensible diet because, as you already know, some of us can’t eat what we used to eat and not see negative effects. Just like exercise, there are plenty of eating plans to choose from. But it is important that you find an eating plan that you like. If you don’t like it, you won’t stick to it.
For those of you who border on being exercise maniacs, don’t kill yourself trying to do a workout you did 10-20 years ago because your body is different now. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! If you did manage to succeed in doing that 20 year old workout, but then couldn’t walk for the next 2-3 days, guess what? YOU DID TOO MUCH! What’s the answer? Analyze your old workout to find out which part of it took you to the brink of exhaustion. Once that is done, cut the intensity in half or put in on another day or replace it entirely with another exercise completely new that works the same body parts. The key is LISTEN TO YOUR BODY! “No pain, no gain” has gotten more people injured than it has helped because some pain is a warning that you’ve overworked, strained or pulled or even torn something. Then you’ll have to take days, maybe even weeks off to heal. All because you didn’t LISTEN TO YOUR BODY.
So put your pride aside and let your conscience (body) be your guide. These golden nuggets are being shared with you by a former exercise maniac who learned the hard way all harm to can do to yourself when you don’t LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. Because when you do, you’ll find that your body can be your best friend and give your years of fun and fitness. Stay strong!
