One of the biggest obstacles seniors have to maintaining health is learning how to overcome inertia. As we know, getting off the couch can be a real challenge. Our bodies are designed to move, and without movement we are much more susceptible to disease.

Starting at about the age of 30, our muscles start to change and reduce in size. Muscle wasting, also known as sarcopenia, is a complex physiologic process that cannot be stopped, but it can be diminished. The best thing we can do is build as much muscle as possible when we’re young. By doing so, we have a better starting point for strength that will hopefully sustain us through our middle and later years.

Of course, we cannot turn back the clock, and maintaining what we have, starting at any point, is vital. As we age, an active lifestyle and a regular exercise program will keep our bodies moving and our muscles fit. This will diminish the risk of chronic disease and allow us to appreciate our health for as long as possible.

The good news is that while the muscles may lose some strength due to aging, just by exercising regularly we can maintain good health and muscle strength for years. Clinical studies show that regular exercise benefits seniors even more than younger individuals. A regular exercise program as simple as walking can help maintain weight, control blood pressure, improve metabolism, keep blood sugars under control and prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes.

Check out this link for an easy reference about muscle loss and exercise tips for slowing down the process.