Getting Into an Exercise Routine For Seniors

I have to admit that the term "seniors", or even "pensioners", is not one that I like to use. Both conjure up pictures of retired grey haired people who are just passing the time of day now that they have no "job" or work . For some, that may be so, but for others, it is just another phase of life, to be lived to the full, and extended as long as possible.

There is not even a strict definition of what a "senior" is, though in some countries a "senior citizen" is someone who has reached that country's retirement age. But with a lot of people retiring early, or taking their pension early as I did, the age at which you become a senior citizen can cover a range of ages.

I stopped working for other people at 45, took up an option to receive a reduced occupational pension at 50, and am now 56, working as hard as ever, but at my home on a tropical island instead of on the English south coast. If someone referred to me as a "senior" I would feel insulted, and I suspect that will be true at 66 and 76.

I believe in making the most of life. You can transform your life in 5 years from wherever you are, so even if your are 65, you can do a lot to change your future for the better, including your health and fitness. A new job, a new business, a new career, a new skill, a new you....all are possible. If you do not allow yourself to be pigeon-holed as a senior waiting in the departure lounge to heaven, then life can be every bit as good as when you were in your 20's.

In truth, it can be a lot better, as your wisdom and experience give you the ability to get the most of it. In your 20's, you probably do not appreciate your life as much as you should. I was a teenager in London in the Swinging Sixties, when Roger Daltrey and the Who sang "hope I die before I get old." Then everyone over 30 seemed old, over 40 ancient and something to be avoided at all costs.

I tended to agree; now I only acknowledge three age groups: single digit, double digit, and three digits. 100 is old, but even then with plenty to aim for. I met a gentleman here, a herbalist who knew the rainforests and their secrets. When I was introduced I thought he was a lithe and fit looking 65 year old who looked 58. I was 52 then. He was 100 years old, and an inspiration. He said his main reasons for living so long and so well were his pure untarnished diet (he refused our food), no alcohol, and always imagining himself to reach a very old age. I immediately starting planning my 100th birthday.

Being active and planning ahead are a major part of being a "senior", just as they are when you are younger. Attention to health and diet are equally important if you are to enjoy you senior life to the full. In fact, everything is much the same as when you are 20, except your body is that much older. Your need for exercise is there at 20, and 65.

At 65 you are more likely to have health problems, so if embarking on a fitness program and increasing exercise, take note of your doctor's advice on levels and limits of daily exercise. The most important thing, though, is to think of your fitness as a key part of your future, and incorporate exercise into your daily routine, all the way through to your 100th birthday and beyond. None of that departure lounge to heaven thinking; the only departure lounge to think about is the airport, as you go on another adventure or holiday.