Here are some of the questions we’re most frequently asked about exercise and fitness after 50. Q: Do non-athlete adults over 50 really need to lift weights? It seems kind of ridiculous. A: Yes, you do – and no, it’s not ridiculous! Muscle loss begins in our 30s and speeds up with age. Without resistance
Do you hate getting sweaty? Or do you wear it proudly as glistening proof of your effort? Lots of people think that more sweat shows you’re working harder. But it’s not that simple. First and foremost, sweat helps regulate body temperature. When your internal thermostat heats up — whether from a workout or a warm day
In the realm of inspirational athletes, there are two realms that come into play: the achievements and the motivation. Consider Rita Hanscom, 70, who won the gold medal and set an American record in the pentathlon last month for women in her age group at the USA Track & Field Masters Indoor Championships in Florida.
Fit people make better lovers. It’s true at any age, even later in life. And it shouldn’t surprise anyone. If you’re stronger, more agile, and have better stamina, then chances are you’re going to have a more satisfying sex life – and help your partner have one, too. Scientific research backs this up. In one
Everyone says they want to stay “young at heart.” But are they willing to lift weights to do it? Conventional wisdom has long held that running is better for heart health than weightlifting. Some research says that’s not so. For example, in one survey, scientists looked at health records of 4,000 people. They concluded that, while both
Research shows there are good reasons for romantic couples to work out together. For example, Psychology Today reports five ways it can help a romantic pairing. It increases happiness with the relationship. After physical exertion together, couples say they’re more satisfied in the relationship and in love with each other. “Having a date night at the gym
If you think there’s no point in even trying to exercise over the holidays, tweak your thinking just a bit. Focus on getting in at least a little intentional movement every day, even when you can’t actually exercise. In your efforts to be consistent, this is one of those “a little is better than nothing”
Here’s a story about one positive step leading to another… and then another… When Jerry Murck took up exercise two years ago, he focused on one activity, rowing, because he loved it and enjoyed doing it almost every day. He lost about 100 pounds over 18 months and felt better than he ever had.
When it comes to workout frequency, there are often two sides: people who exercise throughout the week, and people who try to squeeze it in over the weekends. Sue says she does it all week, “Or I’d get too lazy to do it.” Susan says you should do whatever feels best for you and, “At
We’re often asked if just walking isn’t “good enough” for people over 50. The short answer is: Nope. Sorry, but it’s not. Walking IS a great first step – pun intended. So, if you’re thinking of starting an exercise program, then yes – get up and go for a walk. Or, if you’ve already been