This post a a little different pace than usual but people of all ages need to exercise right? We all know that. Old news Heather. Move a long. But, as a personal trainer of peeps of all ages wanting to be super cali swagalistic hella sexy dopeness, I can’t leave out a great post for those that need a little bit gentler fitness program. My G-ma being one of them… if she would only listen to me.

Let’s talk about my G-ma for a minute. My G-ma is TERRIBLE with keeping up with her fitness. TERRIBLE! And, she hasn’t ever really been one to head to the gym or get her Jane Fonda on back in the day. My G-ma is 81 and maintained a diet of pasta and bread her whole life with no veggies as they all make her gag, literally. This is a whole other issue from being forced to eat her veggies as a kid. I digress. My point is, is that her health has suffered in a BIG BIG way with fibromyalgia, big digestive issues, low bone density and deteriorating strength.  She should be walking daily and eating gluten and dairy free to eliminate her issues but doesn’t do any of that and she loves to tell me she is just fine. “Ha” I say. Your not fine. Look at all your ailments that can be bettered with a little exercise and diet tricks. You can’t even pick up your cat! True story. 🙁

Here is the deal. An elderly person who exercises with moderate intensity for two and a half hours per week can expect to live for five years longer than one who does no exercise (Ahem G-ma). Research shows that exercise can be just as beneficial to an older person’s health as giving up smoking, while it also provides a welcome psychological boost. A combination of strength, balance and flexibility routines divided into manageable portions over the course of a full week can reap HUGE benefits in a remarkably short space of time if the older person persists with the exercises.

So here is to you G-ma!!!! Get your fitness on and be around and active for your beautiful great grandchildren!

So check out this infograph by Home Care Plus to read about the benefits of exercise for the elderly and what they can do to get in shape.

Share with all your favorite silver haired active persons in your life!!