Fitness Across the Decades: 40s and 50s

In the second half of our “Fitness Across the Decades” series, Gabriel Stinson, a sports enhancement specialist at Memorial SportsCare, gives exercise tips for those of us in our 40s and 50s.

40s

The best thing for a 40-something to remember: you’re not 20 anymore. For most, age also brings along the challenges and frustrations of being able to maintain a constant workout regimen, but that’s OK.

“A lot of people feel like they can maintain what they did at 20 and 30 but they need to adjust their workout schedules and allow for more recovery time. It’s a natural part of the aging process,” says Gabriel Stinson.

Stinson stresses that beginners, particularly at this age, need to start slowly. It’s important not to rush into a rugged routine but instead slowly transition from exercising 3 days a week up to five.

50s and Up

“Don’t lose what you have,” says Stinson. He encourages regularly exercising so that people can maintain the mobility and strength needed for everyday living. It’s hard to get back what’s lost as you get older in age.

A good goal for this age group is to exercise three to four days a week, with the focus of these workouts being strength training. Simple push-ups, squats and lunges are enough to maintain and improve a healthy level of fitness. In your 40’s and 50’s you can get a great workout from your own body weight. Machine and free weights aren’t necessary.

So remember, you aren’t 20 anymore! A healthy lifestyle and exercising three to four days a week will put you on the right track to a healthier you.

Weight Loss Tips for Any Age

Be realistic about weight loss. Losing a pound or two a week is a healthy goal. It may take several months of eating right and exercising to see results, but it’s easier to maintain slow loss.

Don’t believe everything you read in magazines or on the Internet. Work with a professional to develop a workout routine that’s tailored to your goals as well as safe and appropriate for your current level of fitness.

If you’d like to learn more about Memorial SportsCare’s Healthy Lifestyles Program, which puts our team of experts by your side, call us at 217-862-0444.