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Over the last 30 odd years the levels of activity have declined for humans as we have found ways to make life easier and remove anything that remotely resembles "work" from our lives. Technology driven devices and aids do our housework, machines have replaced manual labor and cars transport us from A to B. We really don't need to lift a finger to find food or shelter on a daily basis. But hello, we have a problem. These low levels of activity have a disastrous effect on our bodies. The human body does not stay the same or "maintain" strength and fitness when you don't use it; what happens is it literally falls apart from disuse. Research has confirmed it isn't just the number of years on your body clock that is responsible for the effects of aging and that aging would be better described as the "disuse" or "use it or lose it" syndrome. These low levels of activity that we now consider our normal way of life trigger many changes all leading to deterioration of all systems and processes of our body. The biggest and most significant is the loss of between 300-500 grams of muscle tissue per year. There is a name for this nasty villain, sarcopenia which means "vanishing flesh". Starting at around age 30 this insidious loss of this precious resource from the body happens so slowly that one isn't even aware that it is happening. But you will.
You will notice a loss of strength and energy as your metabolism (your body's engine) slows down dragging with it your ability to burn fuel (calories). This allows excess body fat to accumulate and with that you will experience all of the negative health risks that being overweight brings. Along with the loss of muscle is the weakening of the bones they are attached to. Weakened muscles also can no longer support and cushion joints leading to deterioration of joints that end in disability. A dwindling metabolism also reduces the function of the immune system exposing one to the risk of disease and illness that could shorten a life by years (or decades). It isn't as we don't know about all this, there is plenty of information around that can inform us of the many important benefits of a proper exercise program that must contain strength training exercise. As much as 100% of these ill effects of inactivity can be prevented with a few hours of self care in the form of exercise each week. But if the positive benefits of a proper exercise program fail to motivate you into action lets take a look at the not so positive effects. Play a picture in your mind 10, 20 or even 30 years from now. Try to imagine what your life might be like if you fail to do what your body requires you to do to remain healthy. Will you be sick and in pain, maybe in a wheel chair, maybe in a rest home maybe all of those things. Maybe unable to enjoy your grandchildren…that's if you even get to meet them. Change that screen in your mind and try to imagine how amazing your life could be when you have heaps of strength, energy and vitality. Imagine how many more choices you would have - maybe a second or third career, a long put off hobby or interest, travel, fun and active recreational pursuits with friends like hiking or tramping in exciting locations around the world. If you are the sort of person that have been repeating to yourself for years " I'm not big on exercise" or "I'm not an exercise person" you might need to change that tape in your mind. After all no one can take care of your health like you can and should. And you do care don't you?
Do you want to discover the secret to rejuvenating your body, regaining
lost vitality and improving the quality of your life? Download my free
ebook "I've Found the Fountain of Youth- Let Me Show You Too!" www.over50looking30.com
Carolyn Hansen is a certified fitness expert and fitness center owner who
coaches clients to look and feel younger.
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