Life up to 40 is always seen as a phase full of enjoyment, fun, good health, and energy. That idea is not really unfounded, but there are better ways to look at life. Instead, we should look to keep on going with the same energy even after that, but it is easier said than done. Our bodies and health start to deteriorate quickly after 40 but that should not stop you from being fit. This post is all about Fitness After 40.
You can energize your life after 40 by continuing to stay fit. Going on a fitness journey at that stage of life may seem daunting, but it’s never too late to prioritize your health and well-being. It gives you an excellent opportunity to –
- Redefine your fitness goals
- Adopt sustainable habits
- Approach exercises with a fresh sense of motivation
- Feel younger and more energetic
- Learn your body and reduce the limitations
- Prevent serious health disorders
The list of benefits goes on and on…
Now, let’s explore how to re-energize your passion for fitness after 40. Remember, age is just a number if you can lead an active and healthy lifestyle.
Know your limitations, but prepare your body to push them –
As we age, we must recognize that our bodies do not recover as quickly as they once did. What it means is there is little room for mistakes. Instead of pushing yourself to the limits on your first week, you must work on a progression plan that may take months and even years. Start with low-intensity training, then take it up from there.
I have already told this many times and am repeating it again. The key to success in your fitness after 40 is ‘consistency’. It does not matter how you feel on any given day. Just show up for your workouts and get things started. Of course, you may feel great while working out on a few days and not so much on other days. Nevertheless, just show up.
Technically, workouts aim to push your limits. Your body should feel the controlled strain and impact. Things are different after 40, but the aim remains the same. The difference here is you may take more time. You will need to push yourself, but you must also prepare your body to take up the challenges without crumbling. Your body can only cope with the increased intensity with increased strength and mobility.
Don’t get carried away by things that experts do. They have had many years of practice to reach that level. What you need to learn from them is the fundamentals, techniques, and drills they did when they started. The magic is not going to happen overnight. You must go through the progression consistently, one day at a time.
Set realistic targets to improve fitness after 40
Fitness goals or targets will keep changing as you progress. Setting new and doable goals will help you stay motivated with the process. These goals may be centered on improving specific aspects of your fitness, such as –
- Increasing flexibility
- Building strength
- Enhancing cardiovascular endurance
Setting realistic targets allows you to enjoy a sense of accomplishment. It will also help you maintain your enthusiasm for the long haul. Remember, it’s never too late to learn a new skill or to triumph over a new fitness milestone.
Keep Moving
Besides your regular workouts, you should incorporate more physical movements into your daily life. You can try things like –
- Take the stairs instead of a lift, at least when you are not carrying anything heavy.
- Park your vehicle a little away so that you can walk more.
- Not taking your motorcycle or scooter to a shop at a walkable distance.
- Engaging in activities like gardening, dancing, DIY projects, etc.
Consistent physical activities contribute significantly to your overall health, but they are not a substitute for your regular or focused exercises. These are just a few extra things that encourage physical movements. Find joy in moving your body.
Variations are important for fitness after 40
You cannot expect significant improvements by doing the same workouts every day. You can run daily, but you must do running variations, while also doing your strength and mobility training sessions. Engaging in a diverse range of activities not only makes things exciting but also targets different muscle groups. Explore cross-fit activities like swimming, cycling, or group fitness classes to add excitement and challenge to your workouts.
Celebrate your progress
Learn to embrace your present condition because your fitness journey after 40 will be unique. Comparing yourself to your younger self or with others can be demotivating and counterproductive. Instead of regretting over how things have changed, you can focus on celebrating the progress and accomplishments of today, no matter how small.
Talk to Yourself Like You Can Do It
The power of positive self-talk is often underestimated. Cultivate a mentality that strengthens your capabilities and fortes. When faced with challenges, replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of the progress you have made and the resilience you have shown so far. A positive mindset can be a driving force in maintaining motivation and overcoming obstacles on your fitness journey.
Fitness After 40 – Conclusion
Don’t let your age make you believe that you cannot do anything about your fitness anymore. Fitness after 40 is a different ball game but can be done with proper awareness and consistency. The situation has changed, and you have changed, so you will need to change your approach accordingly.