Getting Fit

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Aging well and living well means having a good diet and getting regular exercise, both of which can be major factors in preventing and minimizing a variety of chronic conditions. Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, diabetes and osteoporosis. Everyone, regardless of their age and ability, can obtain health benefits from physical activity.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommends that older adults get 30 minutes a day of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (brisk walking) at least five days a week and muscle strengthening activities at least twice a week.

People who are capable of more vigorous aerobic activity (running or jogging) need about 75 minutes a week. They also should engage in muscle strengthening activities that work all major muscle groups twice a week.

Experts advise that the activity does not have to be done all at one time. If it works better to take two, 15-minute walks than one 30-minute walk, by all means do so. Just keep the goal in mind.

Benefits

Despite available information and research on the positive aspects of adopting healthy lifestyles, the CDC reports that 60 percent of older adults are inactive.

Those who regularly engage in exercise may enjoy the following benefits:

  • Reduced risk of developing chronic diseases.
  • Improved cardiovascular system.
  • Reduced stress.
  • Increased weight loss or maintains desired weight.
  • Improved energy levels.
  • Improved with sleep patterns.
  • Improved overall sense of well-being.

Texercise Fitness Fact Sheets

Texercise has an array of fitness related fact sheets to promote regular physical activity for aging and living well. The fact sheet topics range from the high cost of inactivity to methods for keeping fitness fun. Download the Texercise Fact Sheets and explore other topics through the Aging Well Resources Order Form. Choose “Texercise” in the program box.