Movement for Life - minded

by Lauren Walker

You’re Never too Old to Exercise

I remember many years ago someone said to me “Isn’t that person too old to exercise?” Seems like a silly question to ask. I am surprised the generalizations people have about exercise and aging.

Are you too old to exercise?

The average age of my personal training clients is 75. My mom works at West Shore Retirement home twice a week and she has participants over ninety. The answer is NO, you’re never too old to exercise as long as you have the will to do it.

Can you gain muscle as you age?

Your body only stops developing muscle if you stop using it. The process of gaining muscle doesn’t stop, it merely slows down as you get older. The phrase, “If you don’t use it, you lose it” is appropriate here. We’ve seen excellent strength gains in our 70 plus age group. I firmly encourage strength training because it stimulates bone and muscle development. Those suffering from osteoporosis or merely a lack of strength would benefit.

The Body Mind Connection

Your body and brain have the ability to learn an infinite number of patterns. Exercise is clearly linked to cognitive improvement across the board. I read a study based in Australia based on the effects of strength training on neurological degeneration. Those who engaged in strength training twice a week saw a significant difference between those compared to those who didn’t. The rate of degeneration in the hippocampus (memory center of the brain) was far less than those who didn’t exercise.

Exercise certainly has its benefits and the good news is you’re never too old to start.

See you at the gym!

All Fit All Ages Gym is located in the Food Basics plaza in Port Perry. Call 289-356-2140 for your free assessment.