Just because you’re getting older, doesn’t mean you can’t exercise. Below are five common exercise myths debunked.
Myth 1: I’m going to get old no matter what, so there’s no point in exercising.
Fact: Exercise and strength training helps you look and feel younger and stay active longer. Regular physical activity lowers your risk for a variety of conditions, including Alzheimer’s and dementia, heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, high blood pressure, and obesity.
Myth 2: The elderly shouldn’t exercise. They should save their strength and rest.
Fact: Research shows that a sedentary lifestyle is unhealthy for adults over 50. Inactivity often causes older adults to lose the ability to do things on their own and can lead to more hospitalizations, doctor visits, and use of medication for illnesses.
Myth 3: Exercise puts me at a higher risk for falling down and hurting myself.
Fact: Regular exercise, by building strength and stamina, prevents loss of bone mass and improves balance, actually reducing your risk of falling.
Myth 4: It’s too late. I’m already too old to start exercising.
Fact: You’re never too old to exercise! If you’ve never exercised before, or it’s been a while, start with light walking and other gentle activities.
Myth 5: I’m disabled. I can’t exercise sitting down.
Fact: Those who are chair-bound do face special challenges when it comes to exercise. But they can still benefit by lifting light weights, stretching, and doing chair aerobics to increase range of motion, improve muscle tone, and promote cardiovascular health.