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Stay in the Game 50s and Beyond

· By Kay Colgan, BS Certified Pilates and Fitness Instructor · From pages 38, 39 of the print edition

Have you ever been to a doctor and were told, "At your age, things begin to change."?Those "things" include arthritis, balance issues, incontinence, strength declines, and the list goes on. Just the suggestion instills a sense of the inevitable. It's almost as if we all have a time clock attached to us and at certain times things happen. Is this really what is supposed to happen? Maybe there is a bit of wear on our body systems, joints, etc. But are we all destined to live the golden years waiting for the next "thing" to go wrong?

If you want to stay in the game, you have to get in the game. In other words, each day no matter what your limitations are, movement is key. Our bodies are meant to move. The more you move, the better it is for our bodies. Sedentary lives equal stiffness, soreness, degeneration, as well as a lack of energy. Good circulation requires movement. Our lymph system needs movement to flush the toxins out of our system. Sweating is a good thing. Brain function improves with exercise. Add a sound nutrition program filled with whole foods and lots of water; this will enhance and allow for more movement in your life. Good energy is derived from water, whole foods, and movement.

Diet sodas and processed foods deplete our energy and make us sluggish. It is not complicated, no matter your age or current condition, exercise can and will change your life. Unfortunately, as we age, the media portrays us as less than perfect. Aging is a process and by taking charge, your golden years can be some of the best years of your life. This can be the start of an amazing new you. It doesn't matter your age or limitations, movement and nutrition are the keys to help you improve your quality of life. Energy is housed in what we eat and how we move.

For more information about health and fitness, please contact Kay Colgan, Middleburg Pilates and Personal Training at 14 S. Madison Street, Middleburg, Virginia call 540-687-6995.