COMMON MYTHS ABOUT PHYSICAL ACTIIVITY AND AGING

Myths and even stereotypes about exercise for older adults and seniors often emerge as a result of inappropriate generalizations about aging.  It is apparent that social stereotypes can play an important role in lifestyle choices. Instead of encouraging them to follow specific, expected patterns of behavior and simply just "take it easy'" It's better to promote a more vigorous and healthful model of aging in which older adults and seniors are invited to participate and play a more active role.

The following are the most common myths in regards to aging and exercise.

Myth 1: You have to be healthy to exercise.

Many older adults and seniors resist exercising because they believe that they must be healthy to even begin an exercise program. This is so not true. Physical activity can improve quality of life for the vast majority of older adults and seniors and may be the most effective for people with chronic health conditions and diseases. Instructors, like me, help to dispel this myth by pointing out role models and others in the community who are regularly active despite having health concerns.

Myth 2: I’m too old to start exercising.

Many older people and seniors do not realize that physical activity has been shown to benefit individuals of all ages, including people up into their 90’s and even 100 years of age. I have had clients in their 70’s and 80’s who made great strides in their health once they began working with me. I have images of these people on my website along with testimonials which can help reinforce the notion that age need not be a barrier to activity and exercise.

Myth 3: You need special clothing and equipment.

This could not be farther from the truth. No special clothing or equipment is needed. Safe and effective exercise can be performed by wearing comfortable street shoes and loose-fitting clothing. Effective resistance, weight, and strength training can be achieved with simple, inexpensive equipment such as elastic bands or tubes, water filled jugs, or even canned goods. I can be done! Especially when I come to you and you are exercising in your own home. 

Myth 4: No pain, no gain.

Many older adults and seniors learned about physical activity and fitness at a time when it was thought that exercise had to be of high intensity and strenuous in order to be beneficial. Not anymore! It is now recognized that physical activity does not need to be strenuous or exhausting to provide significant health benefits. As a Fitness Coach, I reinforce the notion that along with moderate exercise, light to moderate physical activities, such as social dancing, walking, or gardening, are appropriate and effective ways to build more physical activity into their daily lives. 

Myth 5: I’m too busy to exercise:

Some older adults and seniors fail to realize that physical activity and exercise does not have to occur at a particular time and place but often can be built into daily activities such as shopping, gardening, and household chores. As a fitness professional, I can help you by reviewing your daily routine and schedule and identify opportunities to help you increase your physical activity.

For more information, contact me at 210.379.2464