The IHRSA is now trying to influence people in the older age group to start exercising regularly in order to prevent the development of diseases such as Alzheimer’s, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, heart disease and even some forms of cancers.
It is just as important to be thinking of starting an exercise programme now, as it is to start with extreme moderation, especially if you have not been exercising for quite some time. Each individual must have an adapted form of exercise for his or her level, age and weight, you cannot just take up any sort of exercise, the level of strain and frequency will depend on how to fit you are in the first place.
However, it is best to start with a lower intensity form of exercise, such as aikido lessons twice a week, walking or slow jogging, and perform stretching exercises before you start. It is important to choose activities you like and are good at, this will encourage you to continue.
Lifting weights at the gym or at home is good for cardiovascular exercising and toning those muscles you need for everyday jobs as well as building up strength.
Before you start any exercise consult with your physician in order to determine your limits. Start slowly by warming up the muscles and try to span through different kinds of exercises, in order to achieve more flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.
Avoid exercises that are painful, and take a responsible outlook on your exercise plan, not a challenging one. Also avoid sports that involve fast movements or lurches, where high levels of physical fitness are needed, these can easily lead to damage.
