It becomes even more essential to keep ourselves in the best shape as we age. But, many people have the wrong notion, “Why do I try at my age? My body now needs rest”. Well, I always believe: “Age is no barrier. It’s just a limitation we put on our minds.” Everyone has limitations of some sort or another, particularly when we are getting older.
The key is to refrain from allowing those so-called limitations to be an excuse not to exercise. Exercise is the only way to keep you in shape and fit. We can possibly do some physical activities that we still enjoy – some that we did in the past or something new.
Therefore, let’s discuss and debunk some of the most common old age fitness myths we keep hearing and get you started on a healthier, more fit you.
Fitness Myths After 60 & Older People
# 1 Myth
“I’m just too old to begin working out now; I have never really been into exercising my whole life.”
Fact: We are never too old to get up and start moving towards a healthier and more fit life. Even if you have never been an active exerciser your entire life, it doesn’t mean you can’t do it now and get positive results.
Helpful Article: Read this for tips on how to begin exercising. These tips will help you avoid sports-related injuries and get optimum benefits.
# 2 Myth
“I’m too weak to start exercising now or have way too many aches and pains.”
Fact: This is one of the most used excuses I have heard over the years. Functional and individually planned exercise programs can instead help rid you of those pains and aches, eventually making you stronger. It decreases the chances of losing additional muscle and bone mass (which occur as we age), making you more structurally solid. The primary key to remember here is to begin slowly and not expect miracles overnight.
Related: Read this to know what you can do to stop muscle loss
Related: Read here how you can prevent bone loss as you age
# 3 Myth
“Exercising will only put me at risk of falling or of some other injury.”
Fact: The truth is that exercising can only improve our overall strength, endurance, and stamina, lowering any likelihood of injury while doing everyday activities. Moreover, it can improve our balance, reducing the risk of falling. Regular exercise will help with your fine motor skills and also help with the day-to-day tasks that you do around the house.
Related: Balance Exercises To Prevent Falls
# 4 Myth
“I am disabled, so I can’t even think of exercising.”
Fact: Whether using a walker, a cane, or even a wheelchair, it is still beneficial and not too late to start a functional and individually planned exercise program with the help of guided assistance. There are various options for physical activities, such as chair exercises, stretches, and resistance bands to non-impact martial arts activities like Tai Chi.
So, your retirement years should not be for slowing things down. Old age doesn’t mean you can’t keep your mind and body in their best shape. Even for people growing older, exercising offers many benefits, including a more cheerful mood and making you feel and look younger. Now is the time for you to keep yourself in good shape and tip-top condition so that you functionally enjoy your old age!
About Author: Renu Bakshi, AKA Fitness Buffhq, is ISSA Certified Elite Trainer. He passed 
Personal Fitness Trainer Course, Nutrition Health Coach course & Specialist Exercise Therapy course from ISSA, USA obtaining + 97% marks. He shares his experience and knowledge about nutrition and effective workouts to get you in the best shape of your life, no matter how old you may be. The author says: “For me age is just a number!”
