Staying active is critical for emotional and physical health regardless of how old a person is.
Children develop muscle strength, learn coordination and hone fine motor skills when they run and play. Teens and young adults burn off excess energy, tone their bodies, and maintain a reasonable weight with regular workouts.
Older adults and seniors combat a slowing metabolism, keep stiffening joints mobile, and engage their minds through consistent movement.
Admittedly, getting up and going as each day passes can be more challenging, but these simple tips can help you find a way no matter what year you were born.
Start With a Strong Foundation
Although the quantities and variations may change depending on your stage of life, everybody requires nutrients and vitamins. Proper nutritional support can aid digestion, improve joint function and contribute to muscle growth and conservation.
If you do not get enough essential elements in your diet, what is Thrive can supplement what you need. Laying a steady groundwork prepares your system to meet the demands you place on it.
Find an Activity You Enjoy
Team sports are pretty common in most towns and cities. In addition to school programs, community organizations, clubs or travel opportunities are often available for adolescents. If competitive groups are not enticing, consider what else is being offered.
Consider non-traditional activities such as indoor rock climbing, golf, or pickleball. Many areas are converting old railroad tracks into bike paths, and biking puts very little pressure on knees and ankles so it might be an excellent choice for older folks.
Swimming is another cardio option that can be done with no pounding or heavy impact.
Be Reasonable With Your Expectations
Do not expect to do as much at sixty as you did at sixteen. Remember that a mile is a mile, whether it takes twenty minutes to walk or eight minutes to run. At the same time, everyone is built differently and has different endurance abilities.
Instead of comparing yourself to the person next to you, be happy that you have decided to do some conditioning. This does not mean becoming stagnant, but knowing your limits and challenging yourself appropriately.
Make Modifications When Necessary
If you watch a training video and the instructor bangs out thirty straight-leg pushups, you might need to begin with three sets of ten with bent knees.
Use a wall or bar to support yourself when balance is a concern, so you do not take an unnecessary fall. Purchase an e-bike if you get tired quickly and decrease the assistance as you work toward your distance goals.
Stay Safe & Be Smart
Your school or work schedule can dictate the hours you can drill. Wear a reflective vest or headlight in the dark so motorists and other athletes can see you.
Carry a phone or identification in case an accident does occur. Do not venture out in inclement weather unless you are adequately outfitted.
Keep a Journal to Mark Progress
It is easy to get defeated or bored, so writing down personal best or achievements can motivate you to stay the course. Set markers that you want to meet, and then plan a timeframe.
Jot down what you accomplish each session.
Ask a Friend to Join the Fun
When you know a buddy is waiting down the street or at the gym, it is harder to skip a day. If you cannot find someone in your immediate circle, look online.
You may be surprised to find others searching for a partner.
***
The mind and body connection is at the center of staying healthy. You are never too young to start and never too old to keep going.
Listen to physical cues and do what you can.
