Aging vs Growing Old 

      I have the habit of asking everyone I meet if they want to live for 100 or more years. How do you think the majority of people respond?

      I hope your answer is yes, however I have been very surprised to find that most people answer no.  It seems we have a negative image of what it's like to be 100.  Even though very few of us know anyone of age 100, the image commonly held is one of being weak, sick and unable to take care of oneself.

       This negative image of aging comes from the fact that too many people find themselves in poor physical condition at an early age. If we could maintain a high level of mental and physical fitness all of our life, we would no longer dread aging. The great news is we can, we really can! It is my belief we should be looking forward to creating a better life as we age.

      Science now tells us that our genetic potential is to stay healthy to at least age 120. However our current life expectancy in America is only 78. Lifestyle diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity are the main culprits that are cheating us out of fifty years of valuable and enjoyable learning experiences.

      In my opinion this undesirable condition we find ourselves in, is due primarily to a lack of proper nutrition and physical exercise. I think most of us are aware of the many health benefits that a personalized fitness program has to offer, such as lowering of blood pressure, pulse rate, and body fat, improving circulation, muscle strength, flexibility, mental alertness and on and on.  As we age these factors become necessities, if we are to stay vital and enjoy our life's journey to the fullest. 

      In his recent book "It's Better to Believe, " Dr. Ken Cooper states that his latest studies on aging have shown no significant decline in the major parameters of aging in physically fit individuals. Factors such as blood pressure, aerobic capacity and flexibility in fit individuals over age 65 are quite often better then those of unfit 25 year olds.  There are also many good examples of what is humanly possible at any age.  One such example was a friend of mine; author Noel Johnson of Pacific Beach. At age 80, Noel found himself so unfit he could barely walk to his car.  He began a training program and ended up running marathons in his nineties. You certainly do not have to become fit enough to run a marathon, however, there is no reason you can not obtain and maintain a level of fitness that will give you the ability to lead an active, vital life, all of your life.  For most of us an adequate level of physical fitness can be described as a condition that enables us to undertake any necessary daily physical activity without reservation or undue stress. This state of physical fitness is a primary component of good health and well being and helps us to look, feel and be our best.

      A basic but comprehensive physical fitness program should include proper breathing, flexibility, aerobic and muscle strengthening activities. First and foremost, practice proper breathing techniques on a daily basis. As we age nothing is lost quicker than flexibility Learn proper stretching methods and practice them daily. Aerobic activities such as walking, bicycling, jogging, swimming, dancing, skating etc. can be enjoyed every day or at least every other day. The key word here is enjoyed. Make sure you have fun doing it and you will stick with it. Keeping our muscles toned and strong is also very important as we age. Lack of strength and balance is a major reason many people fall and injure themselves. A muscle-strengthening program of calisthenics or lightweight training exercises performed two or three times per week is very beneficial and can help prevent injuries. Taking time out daily for rest and relaxation and some form of meditation is also very beneficial.

       I highly recommend consulting with a fitness professional to assist you in developing a safe and effective fitness program that suits your specific needs and desires. Other advantages of having a personal trainer are avoiding procrastination and staying motivated.

          I think we all would like to have the energy and longevity to fulfill all our desires. Creating and implementing a personalized fitness program is the foundation for achieving these desires. Taking good care of your body will enable you to fully enjoy the wondrous experience of aging.