Getting Fit After 40

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

13 May 2006 06:08 AM

Once upon a time, hitting the big 4 - 0 was a scary thing for a lot of adults. Recently, a friend said 40 is the new 30. It's important to recognize that there is no such thing as too old to get started on a fitness program. Getting fit after 40 is a great plan for anyone, whether you have been exercising your whole life or you are discovering that you want to add a fitness program to your daily life.

While you should always consult with a physician before starting a new fitness regimen - exercising after 40 can:

• Energizes you - When you exercise, you release enzymes that make you feel great
• Prevent muscle deterioration - Your muscles shrink by about 1% per year when you don't maintain a regular exercise and fitness program
• Improves the look and texture of your skin - When you exercise, you increase the blood flowing to the skin and this results in a warmer, healthier glow
• Helps you prevent osteoporosis - When you exercise regularly, you will increase your bone mass and this helps menopausal and post-menopausal women that suffer from osteoporosis
• Controls your blood pressure - Regular exercise helps you maintain a healthier heart muscle and when your heart is pumping strongly, your arteries will be expanded and your blood pressure is easier to maintain
• Look and feel younger - Maintaining a good exercise program is a great way to reduce middle age spread, lower the resting heart rate and keep you fit enough to be racing around with the teenagers - this great prep work for the day you have grandchildren who want grandma or granddad to race around with them too!

There is no time like the present to get involved in an exercise program. Check out your health requirements with your physician, start slow and steady and maintain it. You don't have to do grueling workouts to reap the benefits that will not only increase the longevity of life - but also the quality of it.

Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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