Monday, May 18, 2009

The Ageless Squat

One of the greatest difficulties that seniors face (men and women alike) is getting up once they sit down.

Without proper conditioning the muscles in the back of our thighs (hamstrings for short) and on the front of our thighs (quads for short) as well as our butt muscles (glutes for short) become weak and soft.
To overcome this malady, it is essential, regardless of your age or condition, to begin strengthening these areas doing squats. You may not be able use weights, nor do them without hanging on to a chair. You may not even be able to do them fully - squatting down until your thighs break parallel with the ground or floor. But you must do them.
Yes, they are hard. Yes, sometimes you don't think you are able. Yes, sometimes you feel you can't get back up. But you still must do them.
As you get stronger, I would suggest, even if it is 'air squats' (without any weight) that you begin a routine of 1 set of 20 repetitions. Do these twice a week three or four days apart. This is a very dynamic exercise routine and will build great strength and endurance to your whole body.

Do not let age control your life. You cannot stop the aging process, but you also do not have to give into it.
Take charge of your health and give yourself an edge as you advance in years.

Don

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