So you think after 60 you don’t need to do formal, structured exercise! After all, you have quite a few health issues that will surely be exacerbated by exercise and isn’t it too late…

Here are a few reasons that might change your mind:

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• Improved memory / lowered risk of dementia: Exercise improves blood flow throughout the body and also the brain. Your brain will get more energy and oxygen, improving your memory and levels of concentration.

• Better posture: Exercising the muscles holding your back upright and your abdominal muscles strengthen your core (central body). This will lessen the risk of back problems and improve your lung capacity.

• Better sleep (improved sleep quality): Researchers have found that exercisers are likely to go to sleep more quickly, sleep more soundly and are more refreshed than individuals who do not exercise.

• Improved immune system and better health

  • People who exercise get colds less often because aerobic exercise bolsters one’s immune system.
  • It reduces the risk of heart disease, by increasing the ability of the blood to clear away clots in the blood vessels and strengthening one’s cardiovascular system.
  • Stretch and flexibility exercises reduce the risk of arthritis.
  • Resistance training with weights (also known as strength training) reduces the risk of osteoporosis. It can actually reverse the loss of muscular fitness and will help to keep bones strong.
  • Exercise also reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and lowers blood pressure.

In general, then, exercise will help to slow the age-related decline in the various physiological systems that many individuals experience as they get older.

So now that I have convinced you, how to start? Exercising in a group, under the supervision of a trained instructor such as Fitness League teacher, is a good way to get and keep fit and even enjoy oneself! The teacher takes into consideration every individual’s abilities and weaknesses, and also health issues and challenges. If you work in a group, you will be challenged to do your best, but at the same time be encouraged to work at your own pace and level. Our groups also emphasise the fun and social interaction that flow from working together.

See all Fitness League classes in your area here.

Marielienne Janeke