I treat many people with complaints resulting from too little exercise and mobility. Often they compensate for physical shortfalls rather than work on them, making them less resilient to pain and injury.
What stops these people from exercising? After many years in practice I believe these are the top four:
People who overload on information also seem more likely to switch from one fad to the next without ever settling on a routine that is right for them.
The reality is more positive: over-60s who exercise regularly feel fewer debilitating effects of ageing, and generally have a more positive outlook. If you plan on living to be 80-plus, isn’t it better to get there in relative health and wellbeing?
People often expect results too fast. They are expecting a change in just 14-21 days and when that doesn’t happen they try something else. My advice is that it takes 12 weeks to see the real benefits of an exercise routine, so if something looks promising commit for at least 12 weeks and see.
Unfortunately, many over-60s are being advised to stop their sports altogether when they pick up an injury. But research shows that easing back into an activity at a reduced level and gradually building up again is far better than giving up.
Tell us, are you guilty of any of these? What type of exercise do you enjoy?