Make Old Age Wait

I remember it like it was yesterday. It was the Sunday night before Dad went in for his first knee replacement. Dad was a little unsure of what to expect. I don’t think he had ever been in a hospital other than to visit someone – or when us kids were born.

Dad’s older brother walked the two miles over to Dad’s house to offer some encouragement. “I just wanted you to see what a new knee can do” he said. At the time Dad was at least 70. His older brother at least five years his senior. So, here is my uncle - in his mid 70s – huffing it over to Dad’s house on a surgically replaced knee! And then returning the two miles home.

Dad’s older brother has always been the happy, fun-loving kind of guy who loves playing golf. He loves life. Most mornings before work he would go to the local YMCA and swim for half an hour. Uncle Will has never had a beer gut. ( And he loves drinking beer! ) His job required him to stand up and meet customers frequently. A friendly, outgoing and fun loving guy he always seemed to have a funny story or joke to share. I’m sure he spent very little time behind a desk. Maybe that’s why he has been able to stay so slim all his life.

We can all enjoy life a little more just like good old uncle Will. Make old age wait. Enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle. One recent university study concluded that aging joggers live longer and are less likely to endure physical disability than those who aren’t into running.

All you need to get started is a good pair of running shoes and an “OK” from your doctor. Ease yourself into a routine. Start with a nice, brisk 10-minute walk. After you’ve warmed up, try some easy stretches. Don’t bounce. Slowly stretch your leg muscles. Focus on taking a few deep breaths and exhale slowly.

Then try jogging at any pace you feel comfortable with for a minute or two. No hurry – we aren’t racing or in any hurry! Then go back to walking for 10 minutes. Reduce walking time and increase jogging time by one minute or two each week until you’re able to jog for 20 to 30 minutes without stopping.

Take your time. Progress at your own pace. Push yourself a little each day! Give yourself time to adjust to your new healthy habit and don’t push too hard. Shoot for three sessions per week. Always remember to stretch before and after your jog. walk for 10 minutes after your run to cool down and prevent injuries.

If your knees are just not ready for jogging you might prefer walking or using low-impact exercise equipment. Or try a water aerobics class. Join the ‘Y’ if you have one close by and try swimming several days a week. The options are plentiful.

Make old-age wait – exercise daily, and enjoy a life full of health and wellness. If you’ve been out of practice for a while start getting in shape fast and see what fun you’ve been missing!