One of the most common reasons people say they can’t start an exercise regime is because they think they are too old.
If you believe that then you are lying to yourself.
Athletes like Brett Favre and Cal Ripken, men who didn’t let age stop them, can be role models to everyone.
The older you get, the more that exercise becomes important. Keeping your bones strong, your weight at a healthy level, your muscles toned and your heart beating what is essential. As you get older, it becomes more difficult.
AT HOME EXERCISE IDEAS TO START
Simple Strength Exercise
Sit in a chair with your back straight.
Keep feet flat on the floor and even with your shoulders.
Hold hands straight down at your sides with palms facing inward.
Raise both arms to side, shoulder height.
Hold the position for 1 second.
Slowly lower arms to the sides. Pause. Repeat 8 to 15 times.
Rest. Do another set of 8 to 15 repetitions.
Simple Balance Exercises
Walk heel-to-toe. Position your heel just in front of the toes of the opposite foot each time you take a step. Your heel and toes should touch.
Stand on one foot. Start by holding for five seconds and switching feet. Gradually increase until you can stand for 30-45 seconds on each foot.
Simple Stretching Exercise
Hold one end of a towel in your right hand.
Raise and bend right arm to drape towel down back. Keep your right arm in this position and continue holding onto the towel.
Reach behind your lower back and grasp bottom end of towel with left hand.
Climb your left hand progressively higher up towel, which also pulls your right arm down. Continue until your hands touch, or as close as you can comfortably go.
Reverse positions.
Repeat 3 to 5 times each session. Hold stretch for 10 to 30 seconds.
Simple Endurance Exercises
Taking a 15 minute brisk walk
Swimming for fifteen minutes
Gardening, mowing, or raking the lawn
Cycling on a stationary bicycle for fifteen minutes
Bicycling outdoors on a level surface for fifteen minutes
It’s important not to overdo it when you are just getting back into the fitness scene. Take it slow and work your way up to where you want to be. The exercises above are a great starting point. Once you have mastered them, move on to a higher level.