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Don't Get Old, Get Fit!
Have you ever wondered why your once slim fit jeans now fit only your left arm?
Or, maybe you've been in a dressing room, pulled on that perfect size 6 dress, only to discover that your body resembled that of an Italian sausage?
Or perhaps you are one of those countless men who refuses to buy the next larger suit pant, thinking that "hip huggers" are a current fashion trend?
Sound familiar? Sure it does. We just refuse to accept the fact that as we age, our bodies will deteriorate unless we take action. That action is EXERCISE!
In that inevitable pursuit of the "fountain of youth", we all must face the reality that we will age some day.
The choice we have upon us, however, is the manner in which we choose to age. We can invest hundreds of dollars attempting to keep our faces stretched taut, or Botox our muscles to release the lines in our faces, or maybe have fat sucked out of our bodies to maintain that youthful appearance. What does that do for your physical health? You may feel like you look better, but what's going on inside your body?
Wouldn't it be simpler just to start a program that would stimulate your cells to regenerate rather than depreciate? As baby boomers continue to age, they have found the benefits of exercise by staying active. But, you must stay active TO STAY ACTIVE.
Exercise, in all forms, can be beneficial in slowing down the aging process by stimulating new cell growth, firming up those atrophied muscles, and creating an overall sense of well-being. Additionally, stimulating muscle growth through strength training, will increase your metabolism and return your body to its formerly "toned" state. Cardiovascular exercise is important in maintaining a strong heart, reducing stress and controlling your weight. Flexibility training, keeps you limber, eliminates body aches, and minimizes injury. These are all important components in maintaining a youthful and HEALTHY appearance.
You must realize that looking better, makes you feel better. Documented research supports that exercise functions as a stimulant, causing the production of endorphins, the "feel good" body chemical. Endorphins are built in "opiates" that reduce pain, enhance pleasure and make you feel relaxed. Simply put, "motion controls emotion."
While the obvious side effects of physical improvement is apparent with exercise, the less obvious effects of increased resistance to disease, increased emotional stability and improved capacity for managing stress MUST NOT be overlooked when examining the element of exercise in the aging process.
So, if you are not happy with the way your body and mind have adapted to "getting older", take action. You are in control of your physical well-being, no one else. Stop procrastinating, there is no pill that will make you fit. We must come to realize that exercise and sound nutrition must be part of our game plan in aging gracefully. If a long and HEALTHY life is your goal, get moving! I know that this information is not new, we all are aware of the importance of exercise. Why then do we choose a sedentary lifestyle? Only 15% of the population even exercise enough to make a difference in their physical health, and over 60% of Americans are obese. It truly is becoming a health crisis and we, as individuals, must take action. Action does indeed cause a "reaction." REACT!
So, go ahead, take a look in the mirror and visualize the "new healthier you." Take small steps in taking control of your body. Start slowly, be consistent, and be patient. Even 10 minutes a day can and will make a difference. Hire a fitness professional or join a health club for motivation and guidance. If you start today, tomorrow you will be healthier than you were yesterday.
AFTERALL, it's certainly more appealing to age gracefully, then not to age at all...THINK ABOUT IT!
It is NEVER TOO LATE to start your fitness routine. So go ahead, give it a try, you'll be glad you did!
__________________________Copyright, Lori Miroslaw. Ms. Miroslaw is an accomplished fitness professional and entreprenuer with 3 businesses. Lori's passion is apparent is both her writing and products, and offers a "refreshing" approach in educating the public on wellness. Author Profile
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