Commentary By Coach Kim Rockey
The fact is simple and unavoidable. We are aging as a society. Our age is one health factor we cannot do anything about.
However, we definitely can do something about how we age. Baby Boomers, please pay careful attention. Let’s talk about aging as gracefully as possible. And while aging may be “tough,” there are specific areas that can ease your aging process.
Three of these areas include:
- Range of motion is king. Shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, ankles – pain-free range of motion equals quality of life.
- Joint stability creates flexibility and alleviates “stiffness.”
- Muscle strength leads to greater overall confidence – a bonus at any age.
For active aging, individuals seeking improved health as well as those fitness professionals working with them both need a new, different perspective. The reality is this aging population has different goals and exercise objectives. That’s why it’s critical that this group is given a proper exercise prescription. The prescription should include these components: aerobic activities, strength training, balance and flexibility. A trainer or coach must ask the right questions to uncover issues around emotional, environmental, social and spiritual needs.
Older people have more variables to consider like balance, flexibility, low impact engagement, intensity, duration and others. Even those with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, etc. have the chance to add a workout routine to support active aging.
An exercise prescription can also help overcome resistance to active aging, resistance like self-efficacy, fear of injury, poor balance, habit, discomfort, fixed income, etc. It is my goal to help this aging group by keeping them strong, lean and productive for as long as possible with the proper approach.