As you get older, it can feel like you’ll never be in shape again. Just because your health needs are changing doesn’t mean you can’t be in the best shape of your life. It often means simply looking at things a little differently.
The key to being in your best shape as you age is to dial in the best solution for you at that stage. “Everybody’s different. Every body literally is completely different,” shared Maria Callahan, owner of BCMF Calstrong. “It doesn’t have to be black or white. You have to find that middle to be able to maintain and then to keep progressing.” Here is an outline of what to focus on at each age and stage.
30s and Younger
This is the best time to get serious about your health to keep you strong and healthy as you age. Making fitness and nutrition a priority now will set the stage for success as you get older. This is also a great time to add strength training to your routine. It’s important to be smart about your workouts and include proper warm-up and stretching. “This is where injuries are happening. Even if you have to scale it back a bit and do a 40 minute workout and 20 minutes of stretching and recovery, then that’s what you’re going to do, or you’re going to hurt yourself,” shared Callahan.
In your 40s
As you hit your 40s, many people start feeling age catching up with them. This is a great time to really focus on adding supplements to maximize your wellness. “How do I strengthen my bones and my joints? It’s as simple as fish oil, glucosamine, turmeric and collagen, things that when you’re younger, you don’t think about,” explained Callahan. Fitness wise, it’s also important to understand that it’s ok to scale back when you need to. If you have an injury or pain in one area, you can focus your workout in other areas or otherwise modify the workout as needed.
In your 50s
In your 50s, it’s time to start listening to your body more. This is especially important for women going through menopause. Your body is changing every day, and it can feel almost like you have to adjust to being in your own body again. It also means retraining yourself. Things that you loved and were comfortable before may no longer be the best fit for your workout routine. “It’s hard when you don’t feel good to come in and project your best self. You’re searching so hard for something that you know makes you feel good, and you have to find that way to get there,” said Callahan.
60s and Older
Once you hit your 60s, it’s all about continuing to move in whatever way works best for you. Keeping to a regular workout routine is especially good for your mental health once you retire, constantly setting goals to maintain your health and overall well-being. “Stop thinking of your age. Stop thinking of a number and saying, ‘oh, I don’t need to work out anymore’. Everybody needs to still work out, or you’re going to rapidly decline the more you don’t focus on yourself,” explained Callahan.
Age is only a number. You can be in the best shape of your life at every age and stage by continuing to move and making your fitness a priority. If you need a gym to help keep you accountable, check out what BCMF Calstrong offers at bcmfcalstrong.com.