Seniors and exercise? Are you kidding? I’m too old, my knees and back hurt. I have too many health problems to even consider exercising! Does this sound familiar? It does to me. Some of these used to be my excuses and not “having” time was the big one.
At 73, I am definitely a senior citizen, but I have been working out with a trainer since I was 67 years old. I started exercising because I wanted to lose weight. Weight loss continues to be one of my top motivators for exercise. But of a higher priority: increased balance, endurance and flexibility. One of the last things I want to do at my age is fall!
I go to a gym and meet with a trainer 3 times a week, because that’s what works best for me. It’s just another step to keep me accountable, and I love being around other people. Due to medical issues with my wrist, I had to miss about four months of workout. It’s hard to believe how happy I was last week to get back into the gym.
It’s true what they say – “use it or lose it”! Being out those few months made it feel like I was starting over again. So now I am back in the saddle again – lifting light weights, doing balance circuits and walking the treadmill.
You don’t have to spend money on a gym membership or a trainer, you can get fit in your home at your own pace. Here is my first hint on exercising for a healthier you. Put your workout shoes where you can see them, and put them on. Once you have done that, it is literally just one more step and you have begun your exercise routine.
I would love to have you follow me on my journey back to fitness. Maybe we can have some great before and after pictures. Remember, results take time. It took me years of not exercising to get in the shape I am in now, I know it will probably take a few years to get back to where I want to be… but I will do it one step at a time, 3 times a week.
By Cindy Cruz, RN Co-Founder and President of Pride PHC Services, Inc.
To learn more about Cindy: https://pridehhc.com/team/cindy-cruz-rn/
