Fit at any Age
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and exercising is of course recommended in every age group. However, the aspect of fitness is often neglected, especially among older people. Sometimes because they no longer feel physically able to do so, sometimes because they are unsure which type of sport is right for them, or because they believe that it is no longer worthwhile to start building up muscles and the like at an advanced age. In reality, however, exactly the opposite is the case: Especially for older people, sports, exercise and mobility are incredibly important. This article serves to clear up some prejudices, to give tips for ideal sports and to show the advantages of training in old age.
Good reasons for sports, fun and exercise
There are many good reasons to do sports. Some, however, are particularly relevant in advanced age. As drastic as it sounds, inactivity is unfortunately one of the main risk factors for various diseases or even mortality. Sufficient exercise therefore helps to increase life expectancy, reduce excess weight, improve the cardiovascular system and thus lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Another important issue in old age is balance. Here, too, exercise helps to sharpen the sense of balance. This normally decreases with age, which can lead to falls or accidents more often. Through the interaction of balance exercises, muscle building, mobility exercises and stretching, mobility and safety can be optimally promoted in old age. Also the mental health is promoted by sport, by new exercises and with stimuli the brain becomes more active, the body's balance improves and doing group sports helps maintaining social contacts. When it comes to your bones, the right sports load is suitable as a preventive measure for osteoporosis and some joint diseases. The risk of diabetes, dementia and certain types of cancer can also be reduced through good fitness.
Which sports are particularly suitable?
In principle, of course, you can pursue any sport that you enjoy. Especially if you know the movement patterns from earlier times, these can often be recalled more easily in old age. However, it is advisable, regardless of whether it is a new or familiar discipline, to slowly get your body used to the strain again and to make absolutely sure that it is performed correctly. Especially in old age, for example, joint problems caused by incorrect exercise can be a great burden on the body. In this regard, our highly qualified specialist staff at Holmes Place Premium Clubs will be happy to give you tips and, if necessary, correct your posture at any time. In principle, sports with high joint and bone stress such as ball sports with many abrupt stop movements are not recommended. On the other hand, yoga, swimming, walking, cycling or gymnastics with many stretching exercises are particularly suitable. Here, the training is generally easy on the joints and the focus is on mobility, motor skills and targeted strength building. These are exactly the things that are also needed in everyday life and that can be strengthened through functional training. A special motivation can be drawn from group classes, because together everything is twice as much fun! Holmes Place offers a wide range of classes, all led by experienced instructors. So there is something for every taste and every fitness level, for example Yoga, Pilates or courses especially for strengthening the core muscles.
You can find an overview of all our courses HERE.
Please note
If you are new to sports, please make sure you have a medical check-up beforehand. Especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or complaints. Even those who are more experienced in fitness are well advised to have regular check-ups. For example, in addition to the general state of health, the performance of the heart is also examined with the help of a stress ECG. In this way, the optimal training intensity and frequency can be determined. Regardless of the type of sport, make sure that the load is moderate and approach the next level of difficulty slowly. If you feel pain or discomfort, stop the training. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Our experienced trainers at Holmes Place are always available to help you and are happy to address your individual needs and questions.
As you can see, getting enough exercise and living a fit and active lifestyle has a positive impact on your attitude towards life and your health, especially in old age. There is a huge selection both in terms of the types of sport and the different levels of difficulty, so there is a suitable workout for every person. Get started on a fitter and healthier life today, because it's never too late to start doing something good!
