Did you know exercise not only makes you feel healthier, but can make you feel younger, too?
Planet Fitness recently commissioned a survey of gym-goers over age 60 to determine their attitudes toward exercise. The most impressive result? Sixty-plus exercisers reported feeling 12 years younger than their actual age. Talk about incentive!
However old or young, joining a gym for the first time can be intimidating. According to Brian Zehetner, director of Health and Fitness for Planet Fitness and co-author of “Working Out Sucks (And Why It Doesn’t Have To),” making the experience stress-free is key. His tips include:
Asking for Help
Close to one-third of those surveyed by Planet Fitness reported feeling concerned they will not understand how to use gym equipment. Ask for help! Take advantage of the staff available to you—they will teach you how to use the equipment safely.
Starting Slow
Know your limitations, and don’t take on too much too soon—nothing is more frustrating than an injury, especially if you’re an older individual who will require a longer recovery period. Start by establishing a core foundation of cardiovascular conditioning, strength training and flexibility exercises.
Teaming Up
Having a workout buddy can make the gym experience seem less daunting, and provide motivation. (For most over age 60, the “talk test” is a good way to measure the intensity of the workout—if you can carry on a conversation while exercising, you’re probably enjoying yourself more than you would be working out alone.)
Expecting Discomfort
Don’t be discouraged by soreness or stiffness after your first few workouts—these are signs that the body has identified the stress you’re putting it through, and responding and adapting in kind. Over time, exercise will become easier, and recovery won’t take as long.
Starting off on the right foot at the gym can set you on the path toward a healthier lifestyle long-term. Stick with it—you’ll feel benefits sooner than you think!
Source: Planet Fitness
Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2016. All rights reserved.
