At what point does it become too late to improve your fitness? Never!
No matter if it’s been a few months or several years since you had a consistent workout habit, you can still improve your fitness – at any age. Here is how…
1. Listen to your body (not your ego).
When you’re ready to get back into working out or doing more than you have recently, it’s tempting to take all of your excitement and really go for it. But doing too much too soon without giving your body a chance to adapt can lead to extreme soreness or injury.
Listen to your body and gradually ramp up the frequency and intensity of your workouts. This guideline is true for any age but becomes more of a priority as we get older. No matter how you worked out in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond, start with where you are right now and build from there.
2. Learn and practice proper technique.
Starting something like CrossFit later in your life can be intimidating. There are a lot of new movements to learn, but if you keep an open mind and focus on learning, then you’ll probably surprise yourself with what you can do.
As you’re ramping up, you must learn and practice proper technique (at any age). Be patient with the learning process, and make sure that you’re comfortable with how you’re moving before upping the intensity. Scaled and modified versions of a prescribed movement are just as effective. Don’t compromise on your form. Sticking with a scaled exercise that you can perform well will prevent future injury.
3. Make time for recovery.
After finishing a workout, make time for proper recovery. Don’t skip over the cool down and make other post-workout recovery methods a priority. Make sure you eat something healthy after your workout. Stay hydrated before, during, and after and try to get a good night’s sleep. Try to incorporate some mobility work, like foam rolling, and take rest days when you need them.
Cannon Fitness and Performance in Houston has a variety of programs to suit any age and fitness level. Check out our morning Masters class – a fitness class programmed specifically for those over 50.
No experience? No problem! Our goal is to help you move safely and properly with one of our coaches instructing you all the way. Contact us to learn more about how to get started.