Believe it or not, grandparents still do it and many of them do it better than they did when they were younger.
As older adults, grandparents know the importance of getting exercise and they are more active today than their parent’s or grandparent’s generations when it comes to organized exercise and activity.
Grandparents are also gracing the streets right beside younger runners in 5K and 10K races, and some even find the energy and stamina to compete in marathons. The perception of grandparents sitting in a rocking chair crocheting is long gone!
If you’re a grandparent who is already exercising, good for you!
If you’re starting a new exercise routine for 2011, the following tips will help you stay healthier and stronger:
1. Consult your doctor and make sure it’s okay to begin a new exercise regimen. Start out slowly and build up to 45-60 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
2. Do something you really love doing. If you enjoy walking, then walk. If running is your thing, then hit the pavement! Basketball, swimming, yoga, dancing or any other activity can be fun and healthy, so choose something you enjoy.
3. Take proper precautions every time you exercise. Precautions require proper warm-up and cool-down allowing you to stretch muscles and prepare your body for more activity,and for the period immediately following physical activity.
4. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during and after you exercise. Water replenishes the muscles and organs of the body, while flushing out toxins and harmful substances.
5. Dress comfortably and that means wearing comfortable, safe shoes too. Supportive shoes will make exercise easier, more comfortable and safer for you at any age. The newer fabrics for clothing that wick moisture away from the body can be especially comfortable, although they are not required. Don’t wear restrictive clothing or you may be uncomfortable and give up too soon.
6. Have a positive mindset and your exercise routine will feel more natural. Consider the positive benefits of exercise and look at it as a fun thing to do. Make it more positive by using an iPod and listen to favorite music or motivational recordings. Listen to an audio book or use meditation as a way to prepare for exercise. Use your mind to overcome the obstacles that stand between you and healthier living.
7. Engage an exercise buddy – whether it’s a spouse, friend, grandchild, or child, find someone who will support you in your efforts. Whether they exercise with you every day or not, they can provide the encouragement you need. Holding each other accountable is a proven way to keep exercise novices and enthusiasts on track and moving forward.
8. Have fun! Exercise is about doing something you enjoy while giving your body a healthy break from the daily stresses and challenges of life. Make it fun and you’re likely to stick with it longer, until it eventually becomes a way of life.
Now that 2011 is here, it’s the perfect time to start or increase an existing exercise routine.
Create a healthier you and a healthier future by embarking on a daily activity that stimulates your mental, emotional and physical health.
It’s the one gift that only you can give yourself!
And after all, grandparents can always do it better than anyone else!
About the author: Rhonda Day spent more than 25 years in the corporate world ofbusiness with various healthcare organizations and leadership positions. She is currentlya freelance writer and editor. She has three grandchildren and is happily married to Andy,who is a Certified Public Accountant and Personal Financial Planner. She can be reached rhondaday@msn.com.
