Think You’re Too Old To Exercise? Think Again

Exercise with Gloria © by kevin dooley

Starting an exercise program when you’re young is hard, and starting one when you are past 50 is even harder. Many older people fail to see the benefits of starting a fitness routine late in life, or think that the stress of exercise will be too hard on their bodies. All of this is simply not true. People over 50 have been exercising effectively for years, and many senior citizens participate in marathons, 5k’s and even Triathlons. And I don’t mean that they just putter along, a lot of older people put in marathon times that put twenty-somethings to shame.

In order to help you stay fit and healthy even if your iPod is filled with oldies, the National Institute of Health has launched a new campaign targeted squarely at the aching backs of older Americans. The campaign helps you get started on your new exercise journey and teaches you how to exercise, when to exercise, and why you should exercise. The site also features downloadable tracking charts and exercise diagrams so that you know exactly what you are supposed to be doing and when.

There is no reason why you shouldn’t be exercising, even if it’s just a little bit every day. Exercise is not a big scary monster and you don’t have to even join a gym or go sweating around the park. However, exercise can be addicting and once you have been doing it for a week or so you will actually start to look forward to your daily workout. You will feel better, get stronger, lose weight, have more energy, and be better in bed.

So get moving!

via The Big Bad Scary Government

Man Loses 113 Pounds, Runs Marathon – Are You Next?

2007 Dublin City Marathon (Ireland) © by infomatique

Tom Hacker was a really fat guy. Weighing at 309 pounds, the odds of him living to 60 were pretty slim, and idea of him being able to run a half marathon was pretty ludicrous. Then he dropped over 100 pounds and then ran Detroit Free Press Marathon in under 3 hours. Admittedly, he had gastric bypass surgery which I generally think is not the best option for losing weight, but for this guy it worked and I will admit that.

Tom’s story should be an inspiration for anyone who is struggling with weight and wanting to get fit. If he came back from 300 pounds to get slim, those of you just struggling with a little bit of beer gut or some unsightly man-boobs can too!

But before you drag yourself outside and start pounding the pavement, make sure you have a plan. If you want to start running, then the Couch to 5K program is a great start, or if that looks a little too much for you then you can try out The Beginning Runner’s Handbook: The Proven 13-Week Walk-Run Program.

Also – check with your doctor. Running can be hard on the knees and joints, so you want to start slowly and pay attention to what your body is telling your. If you hurt, then STOP. Work with your physician on maintaining a proper diet and exercise plan.

And it always helps to have a partner. Tom was accompanied on his weight loss journey AND the half marathon by his wife Carole.

via The Windsor Star

Boston to Celebrate 125th Year of their Famous Marathon

ING RUN © by sophiea

Believe it or not, but the Boston Marathon will be 125 years old next year. The city is gearing up for the milestone by adding a few more races to the calendar. Runners will be able to compete in an additional half marathon in October, a 10k in June, and a 5k on the weekend of the actual marathon.

Competitive runners will have a shot at a prize in each race, and the over all men and women’s series champions will take home an extra $100,000 each.

If you are a recreational runner (and you should be) then a big city marathon like the Boston Marathon is something you need to experience at least once in your lifetime. There is nothing quite like the thrill of having thousands of people all around you, running with you or just standing on the side cheering you on.

via ESPN