There is certainly a difference – as you age – in the effort required to keep you exercise program intense. It’s not just that the changes in your aging body are seemingly rebelling – it may actually be that the type of exercise that is most beneficial does indeed vary with your body age.
Here are some tips for those who are realizing that the workouts they did in their 20s are no longer the best workouts for their bodies today:
1. Accept who you are now.
It’s a fact of life that we all get older. This is nothing to be ashamed of, nothing to hide or hide from. Get honest with yourself about what your body is really capable of. If you try to kid yourself at age 40 that you’ve still got the body of a 20-year-old, you’re going to wind up injuring yourself. Accept what you have, let go of what you used to have.
2. Stop competing against your younger self.
Exercise doesn’t have to be what it used to be. Sometimes, I get mad at myself for not being as strong or as fast as I used to be. But I found exercises that are every bit as challenging and don’t risk injury. Keep at it, but find exercises that work for your body where it is — not where it used to be or where you wish it were. Give yourself a break. As long as you’re getting a good workout, that’s what counts.
3. Figure out the right exercises for where you are now, and consider trying a few different classes.
Marathon runners hit their prime in their 30s and 40s, but sprinters are done by the time they hit 30. Were you a runner and now you feel it in your knees every time your feet hit the ground? Try a spin class instead (those spin instructors are crazy)! They will work you HARD. You’ll still get the cardio benefits, but your knees won’t be in agony when you’re done.
But, maybe you need to start being careful about pushing your heart rate too hard. Take a full body cardio-sculpting class. Your whole body will be moving and your heart rate will go up without pushing it to the limit.
If you get your butt up and out the door, no matter what you do and what your age, you’re doing more than most people. Give yourself credit for that.
Exercise is supposed to support your life, not be the thing that sets you up for knee replacement surgery in your 60s. This isn’t about ego and pride. It’s about taking care of your body, the whole package, at whatever stage it’s in.
article source: http://www.vitaminpower1978.com/3-tips-to-rethink-exercise-in-your-40s/
photo credit: Flikr /www.flickr.com/photos/communityspaces/4265785144CAP Barbell 40-pound Adjustable Dumbbell Set with Case
by CAP Barbell
Product Description
Amazon.com
Enjoy the versatility of gym equipment from the comfort of your own home with the Cap Barbell 40 Pound Dumbbell Set. Equipped with four 2.5-pound plates, four 5-pound plates, and two handles and collars, the set allows you to work with a variety of interchangeable weights in one easy-to-use and store set. The sturdy plastic carry case keeps the weights organized and accessible when not in use and also makes it possible to carry your weights with you so you never have to leave your training regimen behind.Designed for high-performance comfort, the Cap Barbells feature ergonomic grips, comfort handles, and rubber trim collars. The durable cast iron plates have a semi-gloss finish for long-term rust- and maintenance-free use, and the collars are threaded for a safe and secure fit to the handles. The carry case is not bulky, measuring just 20 inches long by 9 inches wide, and weighs 41.15 pounds in total.Specifications:
- Durable cast iron plates
- Two 5-pound handles
- Four 2.5-pound plates
- Four 5-pound plates
- Semi-gloss finish
- Threaded collars
- Rack storage system
- Dimensions: 20 x 9 x 8 inches (LxWxH)
- Overall weight: 41.15 pounds
Product Description
This 40 lb dumbbell set is convenient and great for both beginners and the advanced fitness enthusiast. The different plate weights come in a plastic case and dumbbells can be adjusted according to weight preference.
