Show those aging muscle cells who’s boss
Did you know that even muscle cells decline with age?
It’s true. Worn-out muscle cells don’t burn calories as effectively. Lower muscle mass can lead to weight gain, which can in turn contribute to major health risks such as diabetes, writes Dr. Randal F. Wojciehoski, an emergency medicine physician at Saint Michael’s Hospital in Stevens Point, Wis., in the Wisconsin Rapids Tribune.
That’s why baby boomers are heading to the gym in numbers. In fact, gym membership among adults age 55 or better increased from 1.5 million in 1987 to 9.9 million in 2007, according to the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association.
According to an International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association survey, gym membership among the 55 and older group in the United States jumped from 1.5 million in 1987 to 9.9 million in 2007.
Dr. Wojciehoski recommends the following steps to start building muscle and burning calories:
- Get your heart pumping with 30 minutes of cardio exercise three to five times per week.
- Weight training — with your physician’s approval.
- Working on flexibility and balance. Yoga is a great way to do this.
- Building a strong core. Try Pilates.
- Incorporate variety to avoid getting stuck in an exercise rut.
What inspires you to exercise? What’s your favorite activity to stay healthy and fit? Do you work out at a gym or at home? Please share your thoughts with us.
PDF 