As we continue to age (Mom used to remind me - we either grow old or die), we must avoid the detours lurking over the hill or in the next valley. As I found out last year, suddenly, I hit a pothole (figuratively speaking), and I was at the mercy of a surgeon who gave me a new hip to get around with. Then, I was a student of great physical therapists who, fortunately, used a pool to continue therapy for many months. I am feeling great now and contemplating stepping back on the pickleball court.
Do you find yourself stalled because of an ailment or two that might also find you visiting a doctor or surgeon? No one wants to think of surgery. However, if you are in enough pain, you wish it might occur sooner rather than later.
I have been an athlete most of my life, playing varsity volleyball and softball in the summers, running track, and yearly, beginning in 1966, earning the “President’s Physical Fitness Award.” Each student had to place in the top 85% of participating students to earn the award. The five challenges were: long jump distance, shuttle run, softball throw distance, number of pull-ups, and a timed mile run.
Now, I find myself exhilarated by walking around our neighborhood lakes for approximately an hour, a distance of two miles. I realize we can’t all expect ourselves to be as fit as we once were. It just doesn’t work that way. But I remind myself that I need to do some form of exercise several times per week.
Another vital fitness aspect for women is to maintain their strength. You can be sure to keep your muscle mass by lifting weights, whether in the gym or, like I tend to do, lifting hand weights – eight lbs. each, during my favorite evening show. If doing weights this way, be careful not to lose control and catapult the weight through the TV or lamp. Studies have shown that you lose a significant amount of muscle mass and strength after about two to three weeks.
My mother, at the age of 70, began doing water aerobics at her local YMCA. She loved the class, made new friends, and hated to miss even a day. I joined her several times to see what the excitement was. It was invigorating. The water was gentler on the joints, you burn more calories, and you’re actually getting a combination workout – cardio plus strength.
I guess what I’m trying to share with my readers is to get up and move to feel better, minimize stiffness, and hopefully sleep better. I’ve included a couple of websites below that you might find interesting.
All my best,
Julie
Throw Kindness Around Like Confetti