I'm retired - am I too old for the gym?
Definitely, absolutely, without a doubt, NO.
While gyms in the past have been mainly the domain of the young, the tide has turned and fortunately many retirees are now realising the enormous benefits to their health of working out. Apart from the usual health benefits it can be a very social place to meet other like-minded people. Many of our active retirees are trampers, cyclists and sports people who work out to keep fit for their extra activities.
While strength training is advantageous for people of all ages, it can be especially beneficial for retirees. Consider that regular resistance exercise has been shown to reduce resting blood pressure, increase bone mineral density, alleviate low-back pain, ease arthritic discomfort, improve post-coronary performance, relieve depression and reduce body fat. Perhaps more important, strength training is the most effective means for building stronger muscles that can significantly improve functional abilities. As we age we also lose ground in three other areas: endurance, balance and flexibility and a well-balanced programme will cover these three areas.
So how do I choose a gym that will look after me? I don't want to hurt myself. The choices in Wanganui range from all purpose gyms to women only, from one price fits all to various payment options. So before you reach for your wallet consider this. What is it you want from exercise? Write up a checklist. Do you have health concerns that require specialist knowledge? If you are a woman is it a women only gym you would prefer? Once you have identified what it is you want, take the checklist with you and head off to the gyms that you consider might meet your needs. Ask questions, can they give you examples of how they can meet your needs?
Also take time to look around the gym, is it tidy and does the equipment look in good shape? Check out the changing facilities - are they clean? Is the environment open and airy, what type of music is playing, are the staff friendly and attentive? The more information you have about each gym the better decision you'll be able to make.
So in summary, contrary to traditional thinking, regular exercise helps - not hurts - most retirees and joining a gym can be your first step to maintaining your independence. There are only a few reasons to keep you from exercising, and "too old" and "too frail" are not among them!
