We all know that exercising is good for us, so in order to exercise effectively we need to take into account our age and life style.
16 to 20 years
Sports are very good for this age group – not only in building the body but also for helping develop mental stamina which is beneficial for studies. A gym workout is best after 18 years old. Prior to this age body specific exercises can give a young person the wrong body shape or possibly cause an imbalance in body musculature which may lead to the stressing of the joints.
20 to 30 years
Our body has now fully grown. The aim of exercise at this point should be to maintain the right metabolism and lay a strong foundation towards mid-life and help reduce stress. Cardiovascular capacity is at its peak, so try to stay fit with 20-30 minutes of vigorous exercise three to five times a week. It is also at this point that we may start to develop flabby arms so try to start getting them toned now!
30 to 40 years
Statistically, there are a lot more new mums in this age group than any other. When exercising new mothers should focus on the abdomen, the back, hips and core muscle workouts as these are the most used parts of the body during pregnancy. Healthy eating, NOT dieting, is a must to help your body recover and to cope with the new demands on you e.g. if you are breast feeding. High impact and high intensity exercising e.g. kickboxing and jogging, and the use of heavy weights should be avoided. Some weight training is beneficial to offset the reduction in muscle that starts in your 30s. To keep up flexibility and reduce stress levels try Pilates and Yoga. Obviously if you are not pregnant, you can participate in high impact exercises, ensuring that particular attention is paid to toning your body and keeping your joints and muscles supple.
50’s
Here exercise should be focused on improving your present health. Focus on stretching exercises to keep you flexible. High impact sports such as kick boxing and karate are not advisable. This age group should concentrate more on cardiovascular exercises such as light weights and brisk walking in the fresh air or on a tread mill to build up stamina. Swimming is brilliant for this as well as helping to keep you toned. Squats, step-ups, and leg extensions three times a week will build up the muscles around your joints and help ward off pain caused by osteoarthritis.
60s
Swimming is a great all over exercise. Keep your muscles strong with light weights too.
70s
Carry on doing as much as you can and walk as much as possible as this is great for your emotional well being and keeps your muscles strong.