I know we all wish we were still those carefree 20-somethings with energy to spare, but at some point we have to face it… time catches up and our bodies are always changing. But that doesn’t have to be a bad thing! Today I want to write to encourage y’all that aging doesn’t have to keep you from getting in the shape you want! I’m 5’ 4 ½” and feel like I am 27 and I know it is because I have not quit working out. I always say my Celeb Barre class is “the fountain of youth” because I totally believe it! I am living proof!
There are a few things that are really important as we age, and they affect the way we exercise and take care of our bodies. Probably one of the most commonly overlooked tips of staying healthy over 40 or 50 is working out with weights. That’s right—we’ve got to pump some iron, ladies! If you’re over 40 and aren’t using weights at all, it’s time to start! Weight and strength training is full of benefits. It’s good for decreasing body fat and increasing lean muscle mass, but did you know it also protects us against osteoporosis? Using weights in your workout helps keep your bones strong… so let’s get to it! It’s also a huge confidence booster and is known to fight anxiety and depression, too. We have several classes at Sleek Physique that use weights, so come try one out this week! You can start with whatever weight you’re comfortable with… there’s no wrong weight! Or check out Lauren Fox on Demand where I incorporate light weights and body weight to trim and tone! https://laurenfoxondemand.com/~laurenfoxondeman/
We also want to put emphasis on flexibility. This is increasingly important as we age… those muscles aren’t going to stay long and flexible on their own! Yoga and Pilates are GREAT for gaining flexibility, and I incorporate a lot of those moves and poses in my classes, so get your stretch on with me, y’all!!
Getting an appropriate amount of rest between workouts is important for all ages, but especially when you’re over 40. Our bodies need a little more time to recover from our exercise, so building in time to rest is the best way to avoid injury! And we all know injuries only get harder and harder to come back from as we age… so just avoid it altogether! Play it safe and take adequate recovery time between sweating sexy with me!
Above all… listen to that beautiful body of yours! She’ll tell you when there’s more effort to give and when you should take a break. Take time to notice what makes you feel good and figure out what you need more of to keep a well-rounded exercise habit going strong! As always, I am here for y’all at Sleek Physique and Lauren Fox on Demand! Don’t let your age be an excuse—being over 40 doesn’t mean you can’t get in the best shape of your life!!
Lauren
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