The old saying of a ‘healthy body means a healthy mind’ is something we are all familiar with, but many of us are not aware that there are many more benefits by exercising in the latter years of your life.

Generally, the older we get, the less we do, however this does not have to be the case. A lot of older adults are worried that they may do more damage than good and do not really know what type of exercise is best. Many seek the help of apersonal fitness trainer who can create a program for all ages and levels of fitness, taking into consideration any underlying health conditions.

Exercise releases a number of health-giving chemicals and stimulates the body’s reward system, meaning dopamine and endorphins are released into the body.

Working out has a regenerating effect on the body and slows the negative effects of the aging process in both a mental and physical capacity. Resistance training is probably one of the most important kinds of training and curbs the effects of muscle wastage – common with older people.

An increase in muscle can lead to better mobility, and this is turn means you are happier and more active which inevitably slows down the physical effects of aging. It is also a great reliever of stress, helps to prevent illness and leads to an improved physical appearance. Exercise also impacts upon the effect of cortisol, a hormone that encourages body fat to build up around the stomach area.

Regular exercise and stretching, in particular, creates flexibility and aids everyday life. People who lose flexibility in later age, often find tasks that were once simple have become significantly harder.

Weight-bearing exercise is excellent for increasing bone density. These exercises lower the risk of bone breakage and increase the density and strength of bones.

Consider getting yourself a personal trainer who will be able to design a training program that will encompass all the necessary training to enable you to live a happy long life.