The Health of Experience: Unlocking the Secrets of a Longer, Healthier Life: Practical Tips and Fitness Wisdom
Let's explore the science behind longevity and fitness. In this blog pos, we take a look at essential practices and insights into a healthier lifestyle and tackle common fitness questions for the 65+.
Did you know that “longevity” is trending?
Yep, books and blogs, shows and podcasts… everybody’s writing and talking about how people are living longer now and will be living even longer in the near future. So, how can you extend your life with the healthiest practices to ensure autonomy and quality of life?
Well, forget those darn trends (infrared pyjamas, anybody?) and focus instead on the proven basics.
“People are looking for the magic pill,” said Dr. Luigi Ferrucci of the National Institute on Aging in the New York Times, “and the magic pill is already here.”
It is! And the No. 1 ingredient is exercise or even just movement. By staying active – and maintaining strength, endurance and agility – you’re far, far, FAR less likely to die an early death. Or suffer the indignities of a long, painful one.
Period.
Hard stop.
That means: If you’re already working out with NeuroMotion, keep it up! And if you’re not, then please please please start today. We make it easy, safe and fun, so book a consultation to get started.
The rest of the proven wonders of healthy aging are similarly predictable – and just as easy to follow.
Eat more fruits and vegetables
Prioritize sleep
Don’t smoke – or drink much
Manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure and cholesterol
Put time into your relationships
Maintain a positive outlook
Knowing the “magic pill” is already here ought to give us all a positive outlook! Let’s do this.
Some Common Fitness Questions – Answered!
I love hearing your questions about fitness. Here are some I am asked most often. Food for thought!
Question: Older people don’t need to lift weights, right?
Answer: Wrong! Resistance training (or strength training) is ESSENTIAL for everyone as we age, for many reasons that are indisputable. Humans start to lose muscle mass regularly in our 30s, and if we don’t work to build muscle, we eventually become frail and weak. That leads to balance problems, falls, broken bones, and more. Plus, lifting weights helps to keep us lean, to sleep better, and to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol.
Q. Does muscle really weigh more than fat?
A. No. A pound is a pound is a pound. BUT muscle is denser than fat and takes up less space in our bodies – about 22% less space.
Q. Is the “no pain, no gain” idea for real?
A. No, it is not. Some discomfort (soreness) might be normal when starting a new activity, but many types of pain are not – like joint pain and tendon strains. As a good rule of thumb,
if you feel pain 2 inches and further from a joint (like on your thighs for example), it is likely muscle soreness, i.e. normal discomfort.
if you feel pain within 2 inches from a joint (for example in your knee), it is likely to be joint or tendon strains, i.e. talk to your trainer or physician.
If you’re new to exercise, don’t ignore pain. Talk to a trainer or healthcare professional to help you distinguish between normal and concerning discomfort.
Q. Do I have to go to the gym every day?
A. Absolutely not. We recommend two or three times a week with a trainer to start. Health experts suggest everyone needs 150 minutes a week overall of moderately strenuous cardio exercise, and at least two strength training sessions a week. You can break that up into chunks of time that fit your schedule, and you don’t have to do it all here.
Q. When will I start seeing results?
A. Everyone is different, and it depends on your goals, but most people report that they start seeing differences within the first two to three months. Many also notice that they start to feel better and move better within a few weeks.
Q. Do I need expensive clothes and shoes?
A. Not at all. Don’t be worried by “fitness fashion” you might see in the media or in the stores. Dress comfortably in whatever you have and don’t worry about “looking good.” We just want you here and moving!
Q. Should I focus just on losing weight?
A. No way! Losing weight is a common goal. But don’t get too hung up on that number on the scale. There are so many more benefits. You’ll feel better, move better, and look better. Maybe even reduce pain. If you also lose weight, that’s good, too.
Q. Can I work out even though I have arthritis?
A. Yes, you can – and you should. It might seem counterintuitive but think about exercise as providing lubrication for your body. It lessens pain and stiffness by taking pressure off aching joints, and it can ease joint inflammation and stiffness.
What questions do you have? I’m here with answers! Send me an email at loisehp@gmail.com with your questions. I will answer every single one.
Your inspiration for the week
And remember, be kind to yourself and others! See you next time,
Dr. Loïse
Are you in your sixties and want to get tips and insights on how to live a long and happy life? Are you a millennial witnessing your parents’s journey and wishing for them to thrive? Curious about the secrets to a contented life? If so, this newsletter is for you. Subscribe below if you find the content helpful — I truly appreciate it! Thank you!