COME VISIT US AT THE GET FIT AND GET HEALTHY EXPO!
/DID YOU KNOW?
TRAINER DANGER
How qualified is your personal trainer? An unqualified trainer could cause serious injury. More than 300 groups certify personal trainers, but there are no state or federal licensing standards. Having a muscular body and knowing how to adjust the weight machines does not make someone qualified to train. Do not be embarrassed to ask questions as it is important that your trainer has good knowledge of physiology, anatomy, and kinesiology. Do they ask about any medical conditions or injuries they should be aware of? Do they pay attention to your body mechanics during exercise and correct any deviations? Do they progress you slowly? Do they know when to tell you to seek medical advice if it is appropriate?
The above are just a few of the questions a prospective client needs to address when hiring a trainer. Remember a trainer is not a medical or nutritional professional and should refrain from giving advice on these subjects.
The important thing to remember is to obtain as much information as possible. Get referrals and listen to your body. If something hurts or causes discomfort, stop!
Did You Know?
Physical therapists understand and treat a vast array of problems that can affect movement, function, and health. They are experts in designing individual exercise programs to help people obtain maximum fitness.
Physical therapists possess an undergraduate degree, with an additional two to three years post-graduate and professional training. They are required to complete a variety of internships, pass a national exam, and are licensed by the state in which they practice.
THE GOLDEN AGE AND EXERCISE
Looking for the fountain of youth? Do you know that exercise can improve your brain function?
Try staying active. The frailest of seniors can magically slow the aging process through exercise, which builds muscle and bone density, and improves balance. Being active helps prevent and manage almost every chronic disease, including diabetes and arthritis. Fear of heart attack or other injuries should not preclude you from exercise. Start slowly and build your endurance.
Small changes in your lifestyle can make a difference. Park your car further from the store front, walk around the couch during a commercial, and move your arms and legs while watching television; exercise does not necessarily mean going to a gym. Dancing is an ideal way for mature people to exercise and socialize. Dancing has been shown to increase balance, which may reduce falls.
Findings indicate that only 31% of people ages 65 to 74 report participating in the recommended thirty minutes of moderate activity five or more days a week. This percentage falls to 12% after people turn 75! If you have trouble standing, you can perform simple exercises in a chair. Resistance training, which helps prevent muscle and bone loss, can be performed with inexpensive resistance bands.
Increased movement and motion in all aspects of your daily life are essential components of insuring healthier golden years. Why not start today?
