CAN WOMEN OVER 50 START A FITNESS PROGRAM?

One of the best ways to take care of your mental health as well as physical health is to exercise regularly.

Physical activities not only control your blood sugar levels, improve your heart function, they can also lower your stress levels and tension.

Every part of your body will benefit from it. 💯

In addition to that, a 12-year follow-up Swedish study has found that physical activity is the number one contributor to longevity, adding extra years to your life – even if you don’t start exercising until your senior years.

There’s no reason why you shouldn’t start your fitness journey right now.

➡️ Don’t forget that it’s a gradual process... so start small. You don’t have to jog every morning. Start by promising to be active twice a week. It’s a walk, yoga, swimming, weights, it's up to you. Consistency is the key, so choose activities that you enjoy. ❤️

❓Where to start❓

If you haven’t been working out for some time, the best thing you can do for yourself is to hire a good coach. And make sure to check in with your GP to see if there’s anything you should be cautious about.

A personal trainer not only will help you with your exercise regimen, but you’ll get your daily dose of motivation.

✅ Mind-Body connection

Don’t do workouts only with your muscles. You must tune in your brain as well.

When you’re doing crunches, it’s not about how fast you can finish or how many times you can do it. Contract your core and feel the tension in those muscles even before lifting your torso off the ground as you exhale.

The same applies to every exercise.You need to think about the process of your muscles contracting. Listen to your body and be present. Don’t think about anything else.

✅ Feeling good

Even though we mentioned that consistency is the key, you don’t have to push yourself to the limit.

Think about how you’re feeling. If you’ve had enough sleep, is anything hurting, are you feeling energized?

If your energy levels are low or you’re not feeling well, consider just stretching or going out for a walk. Exercising when you don’t feel good physically will just put unnecessary stress on your body.

So, be kind to yourself and take care of your body.

✅ Switch it up!

Just like with food, if you keep doing the same workout every single time, eventually you’ll get bored of it.

The solution? Find a fun activity!

Maybe you can kick balls with your grandchildren. Do you like dancing? Find dance classes or do some dancing at home with the guidance of dance instructors on YouTube. Make it fun!

✅ Slow down

Finish your workouts with stretching, breathing, and relaxing.

Don’t just jump right up. Relax, take deep breaths and be thankful. Your body is strong and healthy. Stretch out any tension you’re feeling in your muscles. Slowly inhale. And then exhale. Visualize the air flowing throughout your body.

Now thank yourself for the great workout. You did amazing!