What are the top ten ways for seniors to stay fit?
From Quora Digest
- Strengthen.
You don’t need to pump iron or go to a gym. But you do need to do body weight and light weight exercises that keep your muscles toned. - Stretch.
As you grow older you grow stiffer. So, learn how to stretch. Every day I stretch every major area from my neck to my toes. And I stay flexible. - Stamina.
Get outside and walk, bike, swim, garden, play sports. Just get up and get moving. Rev up your heart a little so it will keep revving. - Sleep.
As in enough but not too much. Figure out how much that is for you and plan it in each night. For me 8 hours is perfect. Too much and I’m groggy. To little and I’m sleep walking. - Eat.
As in whole foods. Nutritious meals. Cut out the junk. Cut out the snacks because you’re bored. Seriously, learn about proper nutrition. Then follow it. Your body will thank you. - Read.
As in food labels. My rule is if I don’t know what an ingredient is or I can’t pronounce it I don’t put it in my body. And for the most part I only eat foods that don’t need ingredient labels. - Moderation.
Moderation in alcohol. Moderation in coffee and tea. Moderation in meals. Moderation in sweets. Moderation in everything is critical. A little might be ok. A lot isn’t. - Quit.
As in drugs. Ok, some of you might need a prescription drug. But the majority of seniors take way more than they really need. And they have side effects that make you feel crappy. - Consistency.
It’s easy to get motivated about getting fit and healthy. But then think, “It won’t hurt to skip today.” “That extra piece of cake will be ok.” And soon the exceptions are the rule. - Commitment.
Frankly, when you’re young you can not do all of the above and fake good health for a while. When you get older there is no faking it any longer. So, choose fitness every day.
