We all know exercising regularly can keep us active as we age with fewer health issues. But I question how much high intensity exercise supports the ageing body. And more importantly, when, in the name of good health, do we cross over some physical threshold and do more harm than good to our bodies?
I was just on the phone with my ex-husband. In conversation, he mentioned his friend, a retired USAF Chief Master Sergeant who is incredibly physically active, working out daily.
Currently he’s combining swimming, cycling, and running into his daily drills as he prepares for a high-altitude triathlon.
Oh, BTW, he’s sixty years old.
That’s so impressive to me. But I know when it comes to exercise, I can be a little obsessive.
Coming from the position, if a little is good then more is better.
At the end of 2020, I cracked two of my ribs in a rather freak exercise accident. It took me forever for my ribs to heal. But that injury taught me a valuable lesson.
As we age, I think it’s great to stay active. But for me, protecting my body by keeping the activity moderate seems to be the golden ticket.
But I don’t think that’s the case with all ageing bodies. Some can take more abuse. Some are genetically stronger. It’s about your individual body and what you and your doctor think is fitting and supportive.
In reality, as they say, age is just a number. If you’ve been sedentary most of your life, then going to the gym and knocking out tons of sit-ups with a heavy, weighted plate on your belly is probably not a good thing. I’d call it asking for trouble.
But if on the other hand, fitness has always been an important part of your life, you’re probably a perfect candidate for continued high-impact workouts, including running.
In short, with a high fitness level, no exercises are probably off limits for us.
However, I know for me when my exercise level becomes too high, my body will certainly talk back.
And I listen.
Here’s a couple articles from the web that bring clarity to the topic.
What about you? When it comes to fitness, what’s supportive and what’s not?
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