The Art of Graceful Aging: Keep Your Future Self in Mind
As women enter their 30’s staying active becomes increasingly more important for maintaining overall health, energy levels, and longevity. Yes, we are totally still “young” in our 30’s, but unfortunately around this age, muscle mass naturally begins to decline (and if you don’t use it, you lose it!). Sooner than later our metabolism starts to slow, and hormonal changes can start to affect bone density and weight management. Skeletal muscle and bone mass are directly correlated, so the more muscle you have the more bone you’ll have, and vice-versa. It’s important to maintain the muscle that you currently have, so the future you (in her 50’s, 60’s and beyond) can continue to be healthy and active. Exercise is a wonderful solution for counteracting these natural changes of our body by working to preserve muscle, strengthen bones, support heart health, and enhance mental clarity. Not only does exercise promote emotional well-being, but it also fosters a sense of confidence and independence. With the right types of movement, women can age with strength and energy to gracefully transition into each stage life has to offer.
Maintain Muscle and Bone Strength, Increase Metabolism and Improve Posture for Poise and Confidence
As previously mentioned, our muscle mass begins to decline as we age, making a big impact on our bone density levels. Having poor bone density increases our risk for osteoporosis and fractures. The most effective way to combat these health issues is through regular strength training to build up and maintain muscle mass. The more lean muscle you have, the higher your metabolic rate (aka, you can enjoy more food without gaining fat). Not only is resistance training fantastic for our bones, muscles, and metabolisms, but it can improve our posture in the process. An important factor in maintaining our confidence as we age.
Enhance Balance and Coordination for Elegance in Movement
When we get to be older, falling can become a more serious problem (especially if we are not taking care of our bone health with regular exercise). Exercise like Yoga, Pilates and Barre are especially great options for increasing body awareness and balance, along with core engagement and strength. These skills can foster more independence as we get older.
Protect Joints and Reduce Stiffness for Smooth, Pain-Free Movement
Did anyone else wake up the day after they turned 30 and notice how everything just kind of hurt? Joints start popping and cracking and you can never quite figure out why your back is hurting. Fortunately, Barre and Pilates focus specifically on flexibility and controlled, low-impact movements promoting joint mobility. Another great exercise option for relieving joint discomfort would be swimming and water aerobics which provide resistance without the impact on our joints that come with exercise on land. Cycling is also a great option for a heart-healthy cardiovascular workout without putting extra strain on our knees.
Boost Cardiovascular Health for Lifelong Energy
Keeping our heart healthy and strong is essential for avoiding age-related illnesses and maintaining our bodies vitality and energy. Exercise has been proven to reduce blood pressure, the most effective being isometric exercises, or exercises which are being held in a position for a period of time (think yoga). To boost your overall cardiovascular health and endurance, consider adding brisk walking, jogging or cycling to your weekly exercise routine.
Support Mental Well-Being and Inner Peace
Exercise isn’t just good for the body, it’s absolutely magical for the brain as well. Regular exercise boosts cognitive function and enhances memory. Not to mention an excellent way to reduce overall stress and get those endorphins in, which help with things like depression and anxiety. While any type of exercise will provide mental health benefits, Pilates and Barre require concentration, coordination and precise movements through mind-body connection, giving the brain a nice little workout as well.
The Best Exercise Is the One You’ll Actually Do
Find movement that you enjoy and get to it! We hope that’s Barre and Pilates classes with us here at Redlands Barre! These workouts are fantastic for improving strength, flexibility and posture without putting excess strain on joints. Not to mention their adaptability for all fitness levels, allowing women to stay active throughout their lives. Beyond the physical benefits, one of the highlights of Redlands Barre classes is the sense of belonging to a community of strong and confident women, cheering each other on. If you haven’t experienced it yet, pop in for a taste!
Remember that aging doesn’t have to be painful. Staying active while we’re “young” and able is critical for aging with strength, vitality and confidence –the keys to aging gracefully.