Invest in Your Health

They share a bond of helplessness, and hope - for each other and themselves. Ten years ago most of these people might not have even bothered to look at one another. Now they share smiles and kind, often unintelligible words.

They wait for young people - 60 years younger to help them navigate to their next destination. Back to their lonely, plain room or maybe to the lunch room or therapy room for their daily workout.

These 80-somethings are in recovery mode. Rebuilding their strength after hip surgery or knee procedures. They have hope. They want to walk on their own again.

Do yourself a favor. Get a little exercise every day.

Structured exercise programs bring obvious benefits, but most people can move toward better fitness by changing their daily lifestyle to incorporate more activity. Muscles used in any activity, any time of day, contribute to fitness. Here are some suggestions for incorporating more activity into your daily life:

* Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
* Park at the far end of a parking lot and walk to the office or the mall.
* If you ride the bus, get off a few blocks before your stop and walk the rest of the way.
* Get up from your desk during the day to stretch and walk around.
* Take a brisk walk when you get the urge to snack.
* Increase your pace when working in the house or yard.
* Mow your own lawn and rake your own leaves this autumn.
* Carry your own groceries out to the car. Or better yet - walk to the local market!
* Play outside with your children or grandchildren - it doesn't matter so much what - catch, hopscotch, or horseshoes - just keep moving.

When you’re ready for more vigorous activity, set realistic goals and expectations. Fitness and a healthy lifestyle are long-term endeavors, so start slowly, and work toward your goal gradually. As your fitness level improves, you can increase your time or distance or change to a more energetic activity.

Invest a little time in yourself today. And every day! Start getting in shape fast! If weight loss is one of your goals - You can. Simply eat healthy, exercise and lose weight fast! A few simple changes to your daily routine can lead to big results! The quickest way to lose weight is with daily exercise!