Benefits of Exercise and Activities

Exercise increases in importance as a person grows older. Regular activities and exercise can reduce the likely hood of a number of problems. An article titled "Even a little helps" from the web site Third Age discusses the benefits of increasing a persons fitness levels. “The researchers say those found to be most fit -- and at lower risk -- tended to exercise regularly, often at levels that put acceptable strains on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, thus leading to a higher level of fitness" (Third age). Increasing a persons fitness can reduce the chances of diseases and physical problems that come with aging. An increasing in exercise can also lead to an increase in mortality.

Increasing a persons activity level doesn't necessarily mean that the person has to hit the gym and work out like a mad man. Simple activities every day can do the trick. Another article from Third age titled "Exercise benefits never too late" discusses pretty much the same thing as the other article. There was a study performed on a number of men ranging from 40 to 59 from London England. With no previous history of strokes are cardiovascular problems, they were monitored in 1978 and again in 1992. It was concluded that those men that didn't change there life to include some type of exercise, would end up dying in the next 4 years. Those that did change their lifestyle extended their chances. A professor from the British Heart foundation named Brian Pentecost says, "It's not jogging or competitive sport that helps -- it's very gentle exercise such as walking, swimming, gardening or playing golf."(Third age).

"Medical studies have shown walking is the most economical -- and most effective -- form of overall exercise. There's nothing to learn, nothing to buy; just put one foot in front of the other.”(Third age). This comes from the article Power walk to fitness. Walking is proving to be the most excepted form of exercise. As stated there is no cost to it. You do not have to buy a membership, or pay someone to show you how to do it. You can do it all by yourself. Walking doesn’t cost anybody any large amount of money either. Besides the cost of good walking shoes. The price of walking is very limited. Other activities a senior citizen can get involved with are golfing or even gardening. Golfing can be a little expensive at times, however, it can be a total body work out. Golfers are forced to stretch and use all types of muscles from the shoulder down when they swing the club. A golfer must use their arms, shoulders, hands, and legs to coordinate their swing. A person may either ride or walk when playing golf. The average walking distance of 18 holes is at least 4 to 5 miles. If walking is to hard for a person they could ride in a cart. This would limit the benefits one would receive from walking the course, however they golfer would still benefit from playing the game. Gardening is a simple activity that is recommended for senior citizens. Getting into the garden and working is very productive and healthy because the movement and activity is the benefit. Pulling weeds and cutting grass is always better for someone then sitting around in the house and vegetating.

Not all activities are appropriate for everybody. Some activities may put an unneeded strain on a person and cause them to get hurt. In order to be sure, a person may want to consult a doctor before they participate in an activity that may be dangerous. Remember, its better to be doing something than nothing at all in order to improve your life.

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