If you look for most Alabamians on a fall Saturday, they will be in a college stadium or gathered around a TV watching football. In other words, football is king. The college football season is on the horizon, along with all the stadium and comfort food that comes along with it. This unhealthy food adds insult to injury when you’re not active. Inactivity can be especially hurtful for an aging body.
Stay active and healthy in the fall and beyond by following these 10 tips.
1) Get a checkup from your doctor before beginning any exercise regimen.
2) Think about your personality, and choose a program or type of exercise that you will enjoy. Do you enjoy exercise with others or going solo? Will you exercise in the morning or later in the day? Are you an indoor or outdoor person?
3) Don’t overdo it! Before beginning, map out a normal day. Count how many hours you have not been active. Plan when you can fit some short times of brisk walking into your day.
4) Make specific goals and make them a priority. Make short term goals like taking 10 minute walks in the morning and evening. Set a long term goal that is achieved by staying focused on your short-term goals.
5) Write a list of benefits you expect from exercising. Make them about things you can control, rather than about an outcome such as losing 30 pounds in a month. Continue your list, and see how long it becomes.
6) If joining a gym, find out if the staff is qualified to work with older adults. Get a complete picture by talking with older adults who are currently participating.
7) Find different ways to keep moving. Clean your home, do yard work, or march in place while on the phone.
8) Encourage support from friends and family by telling them about your new activity goals.
9) Keep your health status and ability in mind when joining classes. If you have an arthritis condition, read information about appropriate exercises from the Arthritis Foundation.
10) Make exercise a daily part of your life. Don’t give up!
Coming Up: Finding an Age-Friendly Personal Trainer