Fitness For Over Fifties

I played my last game of footy when I was 35. After that, the body started to slow down, break down, recover slower and eventually, no more running. So, jumping, bumping and being tackled in a combat sport was out of the question. I do not know how professional AFL players over 35 do it. Lucky genetics. 

35 is probably the average age of when the body starts to slow down, and we need to make some gradual changes to how we train and play.

By the time we reach 50, most of us are definitely in need of some care and attention. That’s not to say we can’t train hard and keep fit, but we may not be as flexible as we used to be, might be carrying a few injuries, and won’t recover as quickly.

I’m now 56 and I’ve had to make some significant changes to how I train over the past couple of decades, but I’ve managed to keep relatively fit. Going slow, taking my time, low impact, making incremental increases in intensity of effort, focussing on core strength and flexibility, eating well and good recovery have all helped.

Everyone over 50 will have some very specific needs in trying to keep fit, healthy and mobile. It’s important to analyse the entire body system, complete a full health appreciation, determine realistic goals and implement and sustainable and enjoyable fitness program to maintain longevity.

Two of the most important things to do post 50 is to keep moving and look after your core. Walking will do both these things but adding in a few simple core strengthening exercises and stretching will almost be enough.

Of course, you can go further. Strength training in the gym would be an excellent addition and for those still mobile enough, playing a relatively low impact sport could be great both physically and socially. I'd be playing golf every day if my back would allow it.

So, being post 50 and suffering from a few injuries myself, I've spent a lot of time working out what's good for staying fit over 50. I reckon I could help you out too.