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Health & Fitness

It's Never Too Late to Start Exercising

Exercise can make all the difference in your quality of life at any age.

One of my clients sent me an article about a gentleman named Ray Clark from the Washington, D.C. area.  Ray Clark lost his wife of 67 years at the age of 98.  He was bored just staying at home, so decided to go to an exercise club. He met with a “young” 70 year old personal trainer, and now at age 102 works out vigorously with strength training routines and is very fit.  He has improved his strength, balance, endurance and range of motion. He is saving untold medical costs and proves that gains can be made at any age. 

According to the National Institute on Aging, only 11 percent of people 85 or older engage in any regular exercise, despite clear evidence that most could work out safely.  Fewer than 15 percent of people 65 and older do any regular strength training at a time in life that sarcopenia-the natural decline in muscle mass-contributes to preventable conditions of aging.  According to a professor at the University of Sydney School of Medicine, “if I could recommend only one thing for a frail, older person, it would be weightlifting exercises, and not any other form of exercise.”  

Ray is a shining example of how attitude plays such an important role in the quality of our life.  I thought this quote from his granddaughter on the article about Ray tells a lot: “The lessons of Ray’s life are said more through his actions than his words.  Say yes more than no. Family is important. Hard work will not kill you. Do the important things, even when they are hard.  Be present for people. Be patient.  Love a lot and worry a little. Most days have an opportunity for joy if you look for it.  In this world of made-up super heroes and media-made superstars, he is an example of what the best type of man looks like.” 

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I AGREE!  Until next time.

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