The importance of exercising as we age

Thanks to Illawarra Flame advertiser Elossa, the gym for people aged 60+, for providing this article

It is no secret that our bodies change as we age. Ageing muscles, bones and joints can affect our ability to participate in activities however regular physical exercise can help to counteract this and keep us active and doing the things we enjoy.

The Australian guidelines for physical activity recommend older adults engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most, preferably all, days of the week. Unfortunately, only half of Australians over the age of 65 are meeting this.

One of the primary reasons why older people should exercise is to maintain and improve physical health. Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. It can also help to maintain bone density and muscle mass, improve balance and coordination thereby reducing the risk of falls and fractures.

In addition, exercise also has significant mental health benefits such as helping to reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve cognitive function and overall increase feeling of wellbeing.

Exercise can also help to manage chronic conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis. While exercise may seem counterintuitive for people with these conditions, it can actually help to manage symptoms.

Factors such as mobility issues, chronic health conditions and associated pain and access to safe exercise facilities can make it challenging for older people to exercise regularly. However, at Elossa Fitness founder Lilliana Barone has tried to remove as many barriers as possible to provide a space for older people to feel comfortable, safe and supported whilst exercising.

Elossa is a specialised gym for people aged 60 years and over and lead by a team of expert Exercise Physiologists who safely challenge members to become stronger and fitter to ultimately be able to Do More of what they love.

The colder and shorter days in winter can make finding the motivation to exercise harder which is why Elossa has a winter offer of a 20% discount on new memberships for the winter months, as well as an Elossa tote and towel.

Elossa is at 102 Railway Street in Corrimal, visit www.elossafitness.com or telephone 0452 356 772