Aging may be inevitable, but it doesn’t have to mean a decline in good health. This article offers some advice for men in their 50s and older on how to remain fit and active and to continue getting the most out of life.
Remain active (but don’t overdo it!)
Regular exercise is important for any age group. However, transitioning through different phases of life often means moderating and adapting fitness routines. Some movements become harder as people age, and recovery times might become longer. The good news is that there are lots of great ways for men to keep fit after 50. When planning a fitness regime, it’s important to include both cardio-based and strength-based activities. Strength training doesn’t have to (and probably shouldn’t) mean heavy weight training. It can be anything that focuses on building muscle while supporting flexibility and balance. Indeed, for men over 50, walking, swimming, and stationary bikes are all great options. Always listen to your body and check with your doctor before starting a new health regime, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Don’t neglect your mental health
Whether you’re winding down to retirement or still working long hours, it can be easy to ignore mental health issues. This could be anything from mild anxiety over aging to something more extreme that needs to be addressed by a mental health professional. If you’re experiencing mental health issues, it’s important to talk to someone, whether a friend, boss, or partner, and to seek professional help before things get too bad. If you’re simply feeling a little stressed because you’re burnt out or have worries about moving into middle age, you’re not alone. Again, talk to other men in your age group and make some positive changes in your life that help you to feel good about yourself. Take up a new hobby, reconnect with something you love, plan that trip you’ve always wanted to take or revamp your look. A change in hairstyle, a new outfit or two, or some accessories, such as from Newman Bands, can help to give you a real lift.
Attend health screenings
Last but certainly not least, as you get older, it’s important to take your physical health seriously, especially if you have a family history of illness and disease, such as high blood pressure, heart problems, or cancer. One great way to promote good physical health is to attend regular screenings and check-ups. No one likes going to the doctor, especially if it’s for an unpleasant, invasive procedure or test. However, catching and treating issues early can save you a whole lot more unpleasantness later on. Between appointments, support your body by eating a nutritious diet and minimizing bad habits.
Getting older isn’t fun. However, there is more than one way to age. If you do all you can to maintain good physical and mental health, you might not be able to hold back the years, but you can help to ensure that you remain active and healthy as you transition into the next phase of your life.
