“Whatever type of exercise you decide you would like to do, be sure that it is something you enjoy.  I think I have spent too many years doing things I didn’t enjoy because they were things I HAD to do. I’m now at an age where I can feel justified in saying that if it isn’t fun, I’m not going to do it.  Also, if it isn’t fun you won’t stick to it and it is so important to make regular exercise a part of your life.”

By Barbara Killmeyer

I used to think that when I became a senior citizen I could just take it easy and sit around most of the day watching television and munching on goodies.  Wrong!  I’m finding that the best thing I can do for myself is to eat right and exercise. As for eating right, OK, I cheat a little – well, maybe a lot. But I do keep trying because I hope to be here and healthy for a long time.

As for exercise, I do walk as often as I can, but I know I have to develop a routine and become more firm about doing it regularly. There are several things I should have done differently along the way.

The first thing anyone who is thinking about starting an exercise routine should do is to consult their doctor. Your physician knows your limitations and can recommend the type and amount of exercise that would be best for you.

The second thing is to consider your options. Think about what type of person you are. Do you enjoy group activities such as an exercise program at a local gym? If so, contact a gym in your area and find out what they can offer you. Most have programs for senior citizens that meet their special needs, and some even offer a personal trainer to work with you. You may also qualify for reduced rates.

If you prefer time alone, you may want to consider walking. Of course you can walk with someone else, but I find that walking alone is a perfect time to think about anything that happens to be on my mind. Something I have found to be helpful is to vary my walking route. If the weather is not good, I use my treadmill.  Most often I walk around the neighborhood. If I have grocery shopping to do, I sometimes walk around the perimeter of the shopping center, and then do my shopping.

A note of warning: Start slowly and work your way up. It is recommended that you wear a step counter throughout the day to count how many steps you take. Fairly inactive people take 4,000 or less steps per day. Once you know how many steps you take per day on average, you should slowly increase the number until you reach 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day.

Whatever type of exercise you decide you would like to do, be sure that it is something you enjoy.  I think I have spent too many years doing things I didn’t enjoy because they were things I HAD to do. I’m now at an age where I can feel justified in saying that if it isn’t fun, I’m not going to do it.  Also, if it isn’t fun you won’t stick to it and it is so important to make regular exercise a part of your life.

So, now, before another week goes by, think about what you would like to do as exercise, and begin as soon as possible. If you combine a sensible diet with regular exercise, you should begin to see results in a short time. You will look and feel better and as a bonus, you’ll be having fun!

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