The older you get, the more difficult it can be to stay fit. Decreased testosterone, overwhelming responsibilities, weaker bones, and low energy levels — all of these factors can complicate your efforts to stay healthy. Thankfully, whether you’re getting fit for your health or trying to look good for a matchmaking blind date, there are still ways to make getting into shape easily. The following fitness tips take into account the most common issues associated with men aged 40 years old and above and the best way to keep fit.
Talk to your general practitioner
Before attempting any sort of strenuous physical activity, it’s recommended that you speak to your general practitioner for a regular check-up first. They’ll be able to examine you for your cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and if you have any underlying diseases that may interfere with your workout routine. Checking in with them first ensures that you’ll be in good condition to begin your exercise regimen.
Start your workout with a good warm-up routine
As you get older, your muscles and ligaments tend to get less flexible, more rigid, and more vulnerable to injury. A good warm-up routine before your actual workout effectively prepares your body for physical activity. A short 10 to 15-minute warm-up that includes some stretching and aerobic exercises can raise your body’s temperature which increases the flow of blood to your muscles. This reduces your risk of injury and minimizes post-workout muscle soreness.
Pay attention to your diet
Exercise is only one element of overall health and fitness. You also need to pay attention to your diet. This ensures that you’ll get the most out of your workouts since your body is receiving all the nutrients it needs to function optimally. You can get a good amount of vitamins and minerals when you load up your meals with plenty of lean meat, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. You can also consult a dietitian who can craft a meal plan that works for your specific needs and preferences.
Ask for support and assistance when you need it
Whether you’re a seasoned gym rat or a complete beginner, there’s no harm in asking for support and assistance when you need it. This will not only reduce your risk of injury, but it also allows you to optimize your workout since you’ll be speaking to people who are more experienced than you. Approach any exercise specialist, personal trainer, or even just a fellow gym-goer to ask for help when you need it most.
Take your recovery time seriously
Your body’s ability to recover takes much longer now than when you were much younger. For this reason, it’s important to take your recovery time seriously in order to avoid injury and get the most out of your next workout. On your recovery days, although you need to be taking it easy, it’s still important to keep moving. The best way to make use of your recovery time is to engage in a light yet dynamic activity. Some examples include doing yoga, taking a walk, foam rolling, or hydrotherapy.
There’s no reason for you to completely give up on getting fit the moment you turn 40. It just means that you need to be more intentional and patient when it comes to your fitness journey
