70 Is The New 50
Be Inspired By Active Seniors Who Are Taking Fitness To A New Level
Getting older does not mean you should become less physically active. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Studies have shown that seniors who participate in a regular exercise program maintain a higher lever of physical and emotional vitality. They enjoy greater independence and mobility. And they’re less likely to suffer a bone fracture. Participating in team sports and making friends through regular physical exercise is also a wonderful social activity and decreases the risk of depression and anxiety. Studies have also shown that staying fit is a smart way to decrease the likelihood of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
If you’re looking for some more inspiration to start and stay with a regular exercise program, then consider the accomplishments of these active seniors who are turning back the clock. These seniors understand that staying active improves both their health and their quality of life. They’re making 70 the new 50.
Jack McKensie: Jack was two months from celebrating his 78th birthday when he participated in a skiing expedition that reached the North Pole.
Mildred Heath: Mildred was recently honored as America’s Oldest Worker in 2008. This 100-year-old Nebraskan works 30 hours a week for a local newspaper and travels to work on an electric scooter.
John Anoka: This 89-year-old sprinter still holds the state mark in Florida in the 400 meters for the 75-79 age group with a time of 1:15.78. Today he still competes in the 100 meters, the 200 meters and 400 meters.
Want to become a super-fit senior? Then consider participating in The National Senior Games. Held every two years, The National Senior Games are the Olympics for people 50 and older. More than 12,000 people participated in the last National Senior Games, held in 2007, including two 100-year-olds who participated in bowling and table tennis. The 2009 event will take place August 1 – 15 in San Francisco. Athletes participate in a wide range of sports, from horseshoes to race walking. The most popular sports are track and field, swimming, tennis, cycling and bowling. Popular team sports include basketball, softball and volleyball. You can find more information on how to qualify for The National Senior Games at www.nsga.com.
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