Wiregrass Seniors Magazine February Issue February Issue | Page 13

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achievement from physical activity or improve your
health. The key is to set lifestyle goals that are appro-
priate to your age. And remember: a sedentary lifestyle
takes a much greater toll on athletic ability than bio-
logical aging.
Myth 4: I’m too old to start exercising.
Fact: You’re never too old to get moving and improve
your health! In fact, adults who become active later in
life often show greater physical and mental improve-
ments than their younger counterparts. If you’ve never
exercised before, or it’s been a while, you won’t be
encumbered by the same sports injur ies that many
regular exercisers experience in later life. In other
words, there aren’t as many miles on your clock so
you’ll quickly start reaping the rewards. Just begin with
gentle activities and build up from there.
Myth 5: I can't exercise because I'm disabled.
Fact: Chair-bound people face special challenges but
can lift light weights, stretch, and do chair aerobics,
chair yoga, and chair Tai Chi to increase range of mo-
tion, improve muscle tone and flexibility, and promote
cardiovascular health. Many swimming pools offer ac-
cess to wheelchair users and there are adaptive ex-
ercise programs for wheelchair sports such as bas-
ketball.
Myth 6: I'm too weak or have too many aches
and pains.
Fact: Getting moving can help you manage pain and
improve your strength and self-confidence. Many
older people find that regular activity not only helps
stem the decline in strength and vitality that comes
with age, but actually improves it. The key is to start
off gently.
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