In a year dominated by a pandemic that hits hardest against mature adults, many are overlooking an obvious way to do their best to stay healthy.
By exercising, we gain spectacular health benefits, including a stronger immunity system.
These benefits have no age limit.
“Whether you’re in your 40s or your 80s, you will benefit in the same way,” says Dr. Wael Jaber, a cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic and author of a study with encouraging news about exercise and aging, separate from coronavirus.
Sedentary people are almost four times as likely to die early as those who exercise regularly, says the study. It looked at 122,000 people who were tested on treadmills over 13 years.
“There actually is no ceiling for the benefit of exercise,” he said. “There’s no age limit that doesn’t benefit from being physically fit.”
So, if you’re already exercising regularly, then keep it up.
But sadly, most people of all ages don’t get enough exercise. One bit of good news: People over age 70 are the fastest-growing segment of the population to use personal trainers, according to the Personal Training Development Center. And this year, countless older people have adapted quickly by using virtual training over the computer, which we are happy to help with.
We believe what this study and the trend show – that exercise is right for everyone, regardless of age.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.