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Fitness
and Aging
The measurement of age can be
expressed in two ways:
- Chronological Age
- The age measured according to a calendar
- Physiological Age
- The age measured according to how your body is functioning compared to
averages found in different age groups.
Physiological Effects of Aging
An individual may be
age 42 chronologically, but physiologically his/her body functions like a 22
year old. Mounting evidence has shown proper exercise and nutrition may extend
the lifespan, but there is a more important reason for good physical fitness. An
increase in body functioning and the body's ability to perform will allow
an individual to sustain an enjoyable, productive and independent lifestyle in
their latter years of life. The quality of our life is as
important as the length of our life.
Here is a
list of some of the adaptations that occur with fitness training:
-
Decrease
in Resting Heart Rate
-
Decrease
in Submaximal Heart Rate (under a workload)
-
Decrease
in Resting Blood Pressure (if elevated)
-
Decrease
in Blood Lipids
-
Decrease
in Body Fat
-
Increase
in Heart Rate Recovery (after a workload)
-
Increase
in Heart Size
-
Increase
in Heart Efficiency
-
Increase
in Blood Supply to the Heart
-
Increase
in Efficiency of Oxygen Exchange
-
Increase
in Lung Capacity
-
Increased
Maximum Oxygen Uptake (ability to perform)
-
Increased
Lean Body Mass
-
Increased
Strength
-
Increased
Bone Density
-
Increased
Ability to Handle Stress
-
Increased
Flexibility
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As you can see from
the information above, many of the adaptations that occur with training
counteract the effects of aging and inactivity. There are also many training
adaptations that can not be measured easily but are also important such as the
motivation that is used in a training program that can spill over into other
aspects of one's life. Also, self esteem is increased with a change of body
image and a sense of satisfaction and enjoyment is felt from participating in a
good workout. These adaptations can result from training at any age. No one is
ever too old to benefit from the positive physiological and psychological
changes when undertaking a fitness regime.
Healthgoods Staff
Path:
Home>Education>Fitness
and Physical Activity Information>Fitness
and Aging
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