Lose Weight After 40: 4 Simple Exercises For People Over Forty
Has fear kept you from starting an over 40 exercise routine? Are you intimidated by the physique of the athletes at the gym? Do you worry that you will hurt yourself if you go for a run or do aerobics? Is it just very uncomfortable to use exercise machines? These worries prevent thousands from restoring their health and happiness through fitness. However, if you start with simpler exercises you will be ensuring your success and life-long health.
Walking is one of the simplest exercises, but it can have a profound positive effect. An ideal workout elevates your heartbeat for at least 30 minutes. When you start walking, do not worry about how far you walk or how fast. As long as you walk for 30 minutes, you are doing everything right. After your first week, set a distance goal that is slightly further and try to cross that distance in the same amount of time. As time passes, you will increase in strength and speed. Gradually, you will be able to achieve a light jog.
Riding a bike is a simple alternative to walking that is easier on the joints and you can do in a group. Your bike does not need to be expensive, just comfortable. You can also try a stationary bike but may prefer the scenery of a real bike. Also, many people are using recumbent cross training machines which are essentially cycling machines that train your upper body as well.
You should always start your over 40 exercise routine at your comfort level. If you are not ready for a run or a bike ride, start with simpler exercises. This will increase your chances of success and help you prevent injury. Also, easy exercises help you prepare your body for more intense activity.
You can stick to your over 40 exercise program even if you spend most of your day sitting at a desk or on a couch. Leg lifts easily build muscle and prepare you for increased activity. Ankle weights further increase resistance. You can perform arm curls, using two to five pound weights, which strengthens your biceps. Each of these will help you body prepare for more activity like a brisk walk or light aerobics.
Local pools often offer water aerobics or other fitness over 40 related classes. These workouts are easy on your joints and very quickly prepare your body for greater activity. Water resistance makes the most basic movements twice as effective. You can also use foam dumbbells and aqua belts for even greater resistance.
Pedometers can help you better understand your current level of activity and improve. Once you have worn a pedometer for a week, you will know when you are the most sedentary. If you have little or no activity at work, use that as an opportunity for improvement. Try to take the stairs for at least one flight, park further away from the building, and take a walk over your lunch break.
There is no reason for you to be nervous. Whether you go for a walk, hop on a bike, or simply workout on your couch, it can be really easy to begin an over 40 exercise program. Do not let your worry keep you from having a longer, healthier life.
To learn more about over 40 fitness, check out Scott Fisher's fitness articles on the above mentioned links.