Aging and Getting in Shape

You don’t know you’re out of shape, until you try to get into shape. But you have to start somewhere. Much of the way exercise is presented, marketing for gyms or products, lead us to believe it’s something that requires lots of effort and added scheduling. But the reality is that activity is activity. Slowly adding more of it to your day doesn’t have to require any hi-jinx.

Start with the Right Shoes

Find a pair of shoes made for activity. Make sure the sole of the shoe is flat and made of a non-skid material. Make sure the shoe is comfortable and supports your feet. If you need to buy a pair, make sure you get measured and shop at the end of the day when your foot is largest. Comfort is key. If you have diabetes, be particularly aware of the fit and whether or not the shoe may cause blistering or soreness.

Add a Lap

If you are out shopping, it’s easy to add activity to the errand you are already running. Instead of entering just one shop in the mall, walk the entirety of the mall. If there are stairs, take an extra flight, even if you didn’t need to use them. You don’t have to speed walk the entire time but make sure your strolling is purposeful and with an awareness of good posture.

Prepare

Drink water before and after your activity and if you feel a little less energetic that day, warm up before and after your exercise. Doing a warm up can help ease you into movement and help your body acclimate to the added effort of exertion. Additionally, stretching will ensure less stiffness later if your muscles aren’t used to the attention you are giving them with the added exertion.

Add Some Weight

Purchasing a small hand held bar bell under 8 pounds in weight, is a great way to tone your muscles if you’re at home or watching tv. Start off slow with a few repetitions and add more as you get used to the activity.

Alternatively, bottled water or any other small, graspable item can act as an added weight. Just make sure you add the routine consistently to your day. Over the course of a few weeks you will notice better strength and tone to your arms.

If you have had any recent medical issues, make sure you check with your doctor regarding the best way to approach activity. Add more difficult, more repetitive or longer activities to your core effort, slowly and over time, and soon enough you will begin to feel better and be in shape.

Broad Street can help. Our Personal Assistants can help introduce a routine into your daily schedule. Through our Professional Network we can help you add more focused activity to your day with personal trainers and fitness experts.

For more information, please call 847.728.0134.

Source:
NIHSeniorHealth.gov