It is estimated that unless we exercise our muscles regularly, we can lose five to seven pounds of muscle tissue each decade of our adult lives. Add this to the amount of fat we gain because of a slow-down in our metabolism as we get older and you can see it becoming a real health problem.
According to Andrea Palmer of FitwithAndrea.com, there are many benefits associated with building and maintaining muscle mass through strength training: from a better posture, a decrease in lower back pain, a faster metabolism, to the prevention of falls because of stronger ankle joints and leg muscles, to better being able to deal with everyday tasks like carrying groceries.
General health benefits of regular physical exercise include: reducing the risk of coronary heart disease and diabetes, lowering of high blood pressure and reducing related health risks, relieving arthritis pain by promoting greater flexibility, increasing bone density, potentially preventing osteoporosis. In addition, exercising regularly will boost your self confidence, improve your appearance and lessen the threat of depression.
Andrea points out that because of these benefits, The American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association have released new guidelines encouraging Americans of any age to strength-train at least twice a week on top of a regular cardio workout (brisk walk, swimming, treadmill, stationary bike) of at least 30 minutes on most days of the week in order to build and maintain a healthy body.
It is recommended that adults of any age perform one to three sets of eight to twelve repetitions each of eight to ten exercises using appropriate weight for their individual fitness level in order to exercise all major muscle groups (arms, shoulders, chest, back, upper legs and lower legs).
In order to maintain a healthy weight and be physically fit at any age, it is important that the physical exercise routine is used in conjunction with an overall healthy diet.
The "Exercise Routine for Seniors" section of FitwithAndrea.com features an easy-to-follow exercise routine and is part of a comprehensive approach to changing to a healthy lifestyle.
FitwithAndrea.com is committed to showing how you can transform to a healthy lifestyle by creating healthy eating habits, increasing physical activity, de-stressing your life and generally having a more positive mindset.
For further information, please visit www.FitwithAndrea.com or e-mail Andrea at andrea@fitwithandrea.com.
