Your guide to keeping fit as you grow older

AS WE GROW old, our bodies also slow down significantly. Our bones become weaker.

The eyesight becomes poorer and as for our memories, our brain only seems to remember things sparingly and selectively.

And while these may seem like good reasons to slow down on your exercise and take it easy as you age, they’re actually even better reasons to get moving.

This is because besides eating healthy, being active and exercising regularly is one of the best things you can do for yourself to ensure you age gracefully.

Exercise will also boost your energy levels. Adopting a healthy lifestyle will not only strengthen your bones, heart, joints but will also prevent you from suffering from the common lifestyle diseases. Exercise actually gives one more flexibility, balance, and also improves posture.

Here are some tips for a healthy exercise programme: Fit in at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. Include aerobics, which good for your heart and lungs and strength training which helps maintain strong muscles and bones.

Aerobic exercise is the best if you want to strengthen your heart and lungs. It improves blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and you get better sleep.

Combining these two types of exercises will give you flexibility and balance which helps prevent falls that could lead to sprains and fractures.

Slow metabolism

Remember, your body is naturally slowing down and therefore you have to work harder and make good food choices to increase its metabolism.

For those with conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis, or arthritis, you need a modified exercise regime or routine that will address your health needs.

Seek the advice of a doctor before you start working out.

Starting may be difficult. You can start by walking, dancing, swimming and thereafter you can increase the intensity as your endurance levels grow.