Health and Fitness for Over 50's

Many people tend to gain weight as they get older and pass the 50 mark. There are two major reasons for this:

Most people are not as active in their 50's and beyond as they were 20 or 30 years before
The metabolism slows down as we age and so calories are not burned as easily

To address this first point, obviously the answer is to keep active. Simply because you have passed the landmark age of 50 does not mean that you have to give up on exercise. It is just as important to exercise as you get older as it was in your younger days, perhaps even more so.

Some people tend to hang up their jogging shoes and think that they are 'past it.' Well the one sure thing is, if you think this way then you will be 'past it.' Sure, you are not going to be able to exercise to the extent that you did when you were young but you may be surprised at just how well you can do. Your body will respond well to exercise, providing that you do not overdo it. It is important to 'listen' to your body.

If you used to do a little jogging when you were younger then you should still be able to do a little jogging.

Walking is great exercise and very good for the posture

Swimming is excellent as an all round body developer and it is easier on the joints than jogging. So, if your knees or ankles are not so good anymore, then take to the water. I have been a keen and regular swimmer for the past 12 years, and it still surprises and delights me when I see that I am often faster and have more stamina than some people 20 and 30 years younger than me.

Yoga will serve you very well and you will soon come to regain much of the fitness and flexibility that you used to enjoy when younger.

There are many forms of exercise that you can do, what is important is to do something that you enjoy and to do it regularly. Aim to get 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 times per week. As you progress then you can extend this if you feel able. Vary your regime as the body quickly becomes accustomed to exercise and this will prevent you hitting a sticking patch.

Regular exercise will help to combat the body's natural slowing of the metabolism and should help you to prevent gaining weight. It will also give you a massive feel good factor as endorphins are released and within a short time you really will begin to feel younger. The old maxim of: 'use it or lose it,' is very applicable in this regard, and if you simply give up and become inactive you will suffer far more aches and pains than you will feel from getting regular exercise.

Before starting any kind of exercise you should consult your doctor and inform him of your intentions. Health and fitness in your 50's, 60's and 70's is something that we should all aspire to.

For further help, tips and advice go to [http://www.howcanistopeating.com]. A site which is dedicated to healthy eating and permanent weight loss.

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