It is never too late to start some for of exercise and improve your health and fitness levels. After you hit 50 it is even more important to build a fitness base and make sure you are fit, active and healthy so you can enjoy your future retirement years.
We are all living longer and I know I want to enjoy those extra years. That is why I introduced Sizzling Towards Sixty as a way to encourage others to lead fit, active, happy and fulfilled lives once you hit the big 5-0.
I do this to encourage, motivate and inspire others to realise life does not end at 60 and to have a ‘joire de vivre’ attitude so they are prepared to enjoy the best years of their lives.
I had been fit in my younger years studying dance and my first job and love was my own dance studio, teaching ballet, tap and jazz.
Children came along and I had an ‘on again’, ‘off again’ relationship with exercise in my 30’s and 40’s. I went through phases of walking, aerobics – (remember Richard Simmonds videos or Jane Fonda videos?), and playing netball. I wasn’t committed though and never really made exercise part of my lifestyle.
At 50, I took up running, encouraged by my younger work colleagues and eventually ran a marathon at 55. My husband and I started personal training sessions and the gym about 2 years ago and not it is just part of our life. If I don’t exercise, I don’t feel good. Sometimes, if I haven’t exercised and I’m a little moody, my husband suggests I ‘go for a run’.
I’m not suggesting running marathons should be our goal. I am advocating exercise should be part of your lifestyle.
You need to be Physically Fit BEFORE you Retire to enjoy a fulfilling retirement.
1. Incorporate some form of exercise into your lifestyle
5 times per week for 30 minutes is all you need. You will feel better physically and mentally.
2. Find an exercise you enjoy and make it a habit.
Walk, run, ski, surf, yoga, pilates, golf, belly dancing, dance – it doesn’t matter what you do the important thing is to enjoy it and that way it doesn’t become a chore.
3. Start Now Don’t Wait Until You Retire
By starting to incorporate exercise into your life now, you will build a base which has so many benefits in later life.
I know I want to be fit and active to enjoy travelling with my husband, playing with my grandchildren and just FEELING ALIVE. What about you?
[bctt tweet=”Build Your Fitness Base Now for a Fit & Healthy Retirement”]
‘Let’s Keep Sizzling’
13 Comments
Great post! Love these tips!
Glad you enjoyed the post Mira and thank you for stopping by to comment
You know Sue- I thought I was in good shape before I retried. The key is to keep moving!
I spend way to much time on the computer working on the blog. My 4 year blog anniversary if coming up and one thing I am going to change is the number of parties I post on. It takes way to much time.
Hugs,
Linda
BOLIACF
Exactly right Linda! Keep moving is the key. Congratulations on your 4 year blog anniversary however I know what you mean about sitting at the computer for too long. Sometimes I have to set an alarm on my phone to remind me to move around! I also agree about the parties. I co-host two and once I’ve finished commenting on all the posts its time to start again! We think alike and I think we could be friends. Take care and hugs to you.
This is so true. I’ve been active all my life so it comes easy for me in my 50’s. I try to encourage older women too Sue to get out there and move. Thanks for always encouraging us women to be more. Blessings.
Oh thank you Michelle I do try to encourage others so hopefully the message gets through. It is never too late to start. Have a lovely day!
Yes, yes, yes! I believe in all that you have posted. My parents were very active in their youth and still continue to exercise. It definitely takes their mind off the ageing process, and makes them happier too.
Thank you Agatha! It is easier if you have been active during your life however its never too late to start. Thanks for the comment and have a lovely day.
I have been walking 5 or 6 times a week for the last year or so (the first consistent exercise I’ve done for a lonnnnng time – I remember those Jane Fonda videos!) and it certainly makes me feel better – shame it doesn’t shift that little pooch I’m getting! I love that you are a runner – such a great achievement!
Walking is great Leanne! Just mix it up with a few minutes of walking as fast as you can and maybe some crunches and no more pooch!!!
Couldn’t agree more. Not sure if the short summers and dreary winters make people less energetic here in the UK but you only need look at the ‘old’ people of 50 plus, shuffling in and out of clinics at the local hospital to see we need a massive attitude shake-up here about health and aging. There seem to be two kinds of ‘old’ people – those who took control of their health/diet at the right time and who are still very healthy and mobile – and those who ate themselves into ill health while sitting very still in their arm chairs. Not sure if the aging population of Australia is split like this but in the UK it DEFINITELY is. Some people skip at 60 and some shuffle. I realise some people have inherited illnesses but that isn’t always the case for sure.
Hi Gilly and thank you for stopping by to comment. I think living in Australia with a much milder climate we are more inclined to enjoy outdoor activities, although I do agree that there are some people 50+ who just seem to give up and don’t try. We have an ageing population in Australia and many will put a strain on the health care system because they are too lazy to do something about their lifestyle. Of course, there are those that have inherited illnesses as you say but there are a hell of a lot more who just don’t want to know and ‘it’s all too hard’. Have a great week and hope to talk again soon.
Thanks for entering the Pinterest Game, all the best.
Kathleen