Filling the Olympics Void

Has anyone else been left feeling a little empty since the closing of the Olympic Games?

Whether you are a keen sports enthusiast or not, the whole event certainly captured the hearts and minds of the nation and it was lovely to watch so many inspiring role models of all different ages. I suspect that we will be wowed once again when the Paralympics start at the end of the month.

Whilst attending a recent training course in London on adapting exercise for older adults, I was reminded of a few statistics which highlight the importance of regular exercise, no matter our age.

So, just in case you were under the illusion that you didn’t need to think about your fitness until much later down the line, here are few facts that might get you moving a little sooner!

• Muscles - We reach peak muscle mass by the grand old age of 30, after which time, muscle tissue begins to decrease
• Bones – Peak bone density is reached around the age of 35. After this time, bone mineral density and mass begins to decrease which can result in diseases of the bone such as osteoporosis over time
• Heart and lungs – these can also begin to decline from the age of 30. Don’t forget, the heart is a muscle and needs to be worked and strengthened like any other muscle in the body

Whilst this might be scary reading for some, don’t despair! The good news is that you can help to delay the ageing process by undertaking regular exercise.

As a reminder, we need to be doing 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity a week PLUS strength training exercises on 2 days of the week e.g. squats, press up, sit up.

So, if you’ve been promising yourself over the last few weeks that you’re going to start a new regime, then don’t delay and start making some healthy deposits into those muscle and bone accounts today!

Emily is a qualified fitness instructor and runs regular weekly fitness classes - starting September on Tuesday mornings in Dickleburgh. To find out more, visit www.inthepinkfit.co.uk or contact her at emily@inthepinkfit.co.uk

Emily Orford