For many people, the aging process is very difficult to accept. The passing years reveal weaknesses they have not predicted in their younger years. The lack of stamina, poor fitness, and recurrent joint pains are just a few symptoms that affect men and women over 50. Here are five myths that could do worse to your health than the pain you feel when working out.
I am too old to work out
This is nothing but gibberish. You can perform simple exercises to maintain your fitness regardless of age. You only need to find the program that suits you best. Low-tempo exercises are an accessible starting point for many seniors.
I have never done sports – it is too late now
Don’t believe that nonsense. It is never too late to practice sports. Of course, football probably should not be your first choice if you are 73 and suffering from arthritis. Still, you can perform slow-tempo yoga and core strength exercises that tone your body and give you more energy.
Exercises will ruin my health
On the contrary, if you want to prolong your life expectancy and live a healthier life, you should exercise every day. For example, you can perform easy-to-follow training moves to improve your muscles and blood circulation.
Old age only requires brain exercises
That is not true at all. Doing a crossword puzzle and reading are good exercises to keep up your mental agility, but you should not disregard your body. With daily activities performed standing or on a yoga mat, you can increase your mobility, add more strength and avoid muscular cramps.
I need the doctor’s approval to work out
No, you don’t! Most doctors advise you not to try contact sports or do the “Iron Man” challenge. However, you do not need anybody’s approval for simple, slow-tempo exercises. In fact, you can exercise to increase your energy and improve your health condition at home without needing supervision.