More people than ever are embracing the “life begins at 50” mindset — and for good reason. For example, there are plenty of older athletes to draw inspiration from who have managed to stay in shape at age 50 and achieve peak physical fitness. Look no further than ultra-endurance athlete, Rich Roll, or Ironman athlete and trainer, Laura Sophiea, who are shining examples of that 50+ feeling. So if you’re wondering if you’re doing the right things after 50 for longevity, we’ve got you covered. We spoke with Antoine Hamelin, CPTpersonal trainer and CEO of First Step Fitness, who shares five telltale signs you’re fit at 50.
While this mindset is empowering and helps promote healthy aging, there is real science to back it up. Researchers have found that regular physical activity is essential for managing healthy aging and well-being, especially in older adults. For example, strength training as you age helps preserve muscle, increase mobility, improve balance and add years to your life, according to the National Institute on Aging. Similarly, regular cardiovascular exercise like walking and jogging can boost your mood, sharpen your brain, and boost your heart health — all factors that reduce your risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and heart disease. cancer, according to a review published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
Read on to discover five telltale signs that you’re fit at 50. It will give you peace of mind and confidence that you will get the most out of life for years to come.
If your doctor notices your condition during your annual checkup, or if your friends and family regularly comment on how good-looking you are “for your age,” it could be a sign that you’re in great shape.
“You’re a doctor’s dream patient if you’re one of the few who, after age 50, have normal blood pressure, perfect blood work, sleep well, and maintain a healthy body weight,” Hamelin says. “These things don’t happen by accident after 50, and your doctor knows that.”
You know you are doing something right when your children or grandchildren ask you to hunt or play sports with them (depending on their age). That means you’ve probably done it with them before, and you’re a fun, active parent.
“Whether it’s flag football, soccer or hockey, your kids know you can keep up and give them a good challenge. That’s because you’ve stayed in shape since they were little and they know you might be in your 50s, but you’re still moving like you’re in your 30s,” Hamelin says.
If you can still help a neighbor move house, haul groceries, go hiking with younger family members, and get on all fours to clean the floor, that means you have the fitness trifecta. at 50 – strength, good cardiovascular health. health and mobility.
Hamelin explains, “If you can do 20 push-ups in a row, more than five pull-ups, run 5 km in under 30 minutes, and are flexible enough to do parallel squats and any variation of lunges, you’re in form ! “
People often say that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. However, a surefire sign that you’re in excellent physical and mental shape at 50 is if you’re ready to take on new challenges, challenges in the form of sports and activities you’ve never done before.
Hamelin tells us, “If you want to try activities like mountain biking or cross-country skiing for the first time, that’s a sign that you’re in great shape,” says Hamelin. “It means you know your fitness, strength, balance and coordination are great and you can try new things without risk of injury. So go ahead and play hard, you’ve earned it!”
Healthy and physically fit people don’t often fall prey to fad diets or the latest food trends. This is because they already have healthy eating habits and stay active throughout the year to maintain a healthy weight. So there is no need to follow a restrictive diet or count calories.
“If your lifestyle includes good nutrition most of the time, weight training and cardio most days of the week, you’re on the right track,” Hamelin says. “You have your lifestyle. Because it not only gives you a healthy body, but it also helps you feel good mentally and you can’t imagine living any other way.”
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