Recently, someone inquired when I plan to cease the vigorous exercises I adore, such as running and Peloton biking. This question prompted me to ponder: when is it truly time to stop?
My response is simple: I’ll continue for as long as possible.
Why, you ask?
It’s because I’m aware that persisting with my routine, which includes cardio, strength training, balance, and coordination exercises, diminishes my risk of:
– Osteoporosis
– Falls
– Cardiovascular disease
– Insulin insensitivity and metabolic syndrome
– Cancer (which I certainly do not wish to experience again)
– Poor mental health
Besides Pilates, there are numerous enjoyable cardio activities:
– Cycling
– Brisk walking
– Dancing
– Swimming
– Rowing
– Running or jogging
– Playing netball
– Golfing (particularly if you carry your clubs around the course)
– Various aerobic classes
– Pilates (but at a high pace – just a little Pilates instructor humour!)
You might be thinking:
The last time I engaged in any serious exercise was back in school, and I detested it. Why bother starting now?
I loathed PE. It was all about rounders, netball, cross-country running, or hockey, which for me translated to:
– The anxiety of being the last one picked for a team.
– The discomfort of the cold, the wet, and the mud.
– The danger of getting hit by a hockey stick (though, admittedly, it was somewhat satisfying to return the favour).
It wasn’t until I quit smoking at 30 that I discovered my passion for exercise, trading a harmful addiction for a beneficial one, and significantly improving my life.
The key point is: you must find an activity you enjoy, or else you won’t stick with it.
I harbour some fears about potential injuries. Perhaps it’s safer not to embark on a new fitness journey.
However, inactivity poses a far greater risk of chronic health problems compared to the minor risk of temporary soreness from exercise.
I don’t have time.
The minimum that any of us should be doing is 150 minutes per week and that’s just 22 minutes per day.
Are you telling me you don’t have 22 minutes spread across your 24 hours?
Where should I start?
With whatever you think is achievable and also enjoyable!
Start low impact and increase the intensity over time.
And, when you go out for a walk, make it a brisk one, not a leisurely stroll. You should be a little out of breath.
If I’ve still not convinced you, check out this 25-minute program on BBC Sounds featuring an 85-year-old triathlete who started exercising in her 50s.