You Can be Fit at Any Age

While exercise won't stop the aging process, it can add life to your years.

Regular exercise not only helps with cardiovascular fitness, but also reduces stress, improves sleep, digestion, bowel and muscle movement, strengthens bones and makes you feel better.

The best exercises are those that use the large muscle groups such as swimming, walking, water aerobics, gentle exercise to music, dancing and cycling.

Improving your fitness enables you to do more with less effort and for longer periods, but it is important to use common sense - don't start your exercise program by trying to run a marathon.

Start any activity slowly and build up your efforts over several weeks. To get the most out of your activity you need to work up to a "puffing" feeling, but you should always be able to talk or whistle during exercise.

It is a good idea to attempt at least moderate exercise, such as a walk, every day, but more vigorous activity - anything that leaves you puffing for 30 minutes - should be tried every second day.

But let your body be your guide. If you feel great, then perhaps you could increase your activity; if you feel sore and tired, rest longer between your exercise sessions.

It is also important to feel comfortable and unrestricted while you are exercising, so choose your clothes and shoes carefully but remember they don't have to be the most expensive brands.

Before Starting:

On Land: Loose, comfortable clothes. Avoid any tight elastic bands around knees, wrists or ankles. Socks should be thick cotton.

Shoes: Comfortable, non-slip, well-supported with a cushioned flat sole. Walking or jogging shoes are good to start with.

In Water: A comfortable swim suit, a bathing cap and goggles if desired. A towel and a spare plastic bag to carry wet gear.

Before Exercising:

1. Try not to eat large amounts of food immediately before or after exercise.

2. Drink small amounts of water before, during and after activity.

3. It's a good idea to go to the toilet before starting any exercise.

4. If on medication, talk to your doctor before starting any new activity.

5. Postpone activity if you are feeling unwell, have a viral infection or cold.

6. If you have a break from your regular exercise, go back to a much lower level of activity when you restart.

7. If you have not been involved in regular physical activity during the past 12 months, or have any concern, talk to your doctor before beginning your new exercise program.

Source: Nationwide News Pty Limited Herald Sun,
June 21, 1993