![72_ss_babyboomer_0](https://www.hivplusmag.com/media-library/72-ss-babyboomer-0.jpg?id=32666848&width=1200&height=1200)
Treatment GuideJust DiagnosedSex & DatingAfrican AmericanStigmaAsk the HIV DocPrEP En EspañolNewsVoicesPrint IssueVideoOut 100
CONTACTCAREER OPPORTUNITIESADVERTISE WITH USPRIVACY POLICYPRIVACY PREFERENCESTERMS OF USELEGAL NOTICE
© 2024 Pride Publishing Inc.
All Rights reserved
All Rights reserved
By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Private Policy and Terms of Use.
Thanks to breakthroughs in medicine and technology, Americans are living longer than ever before. But that also means it's even more important for older adults to get regular exercise to get the most out of those extra years, says fitness expert Bob Bonham, founder of Strong and Shapely Gym in East Rutherford, N.J. He offers the following informational nuggets and pointers for adults age 50 and older (the so-called baby boomers) interested in getting -- and staying -- fit throughout their golden years. > Exercise helps ward off ailments associated with aging. Exercise strengthens bones and lowers the risk of osteoporosis, improves muscle tone and memory, increases heart and lung efficiency, and lowers blood pressure. It also improves digestion, gives one better balance and coordination (which helps prevent falls), and helps prevent diabetes and arthritis. > Get your doctor's approval. It's especially important for adults over age 50 to get a physical and your doctor's approval before beginning any exercise program to determine which forms of exercise are best for you and to detect any medical condition that could make certain workouts too dangerous. > Less is more. Those over age 50 don't need to spend several hours a week in a gym to get results and stay healthy. Exercising for just 20 to 30 minutes three or four times a week can be helpful, even if you're only doing light activities like gardening, cleaning the house, or walking. > Look for classes and groups designed for older adults. Many health clubs offer special classes for members over age 50. You might feel more comfortable working out with people your own age, and the classes are geared toward the special needs of older adults. > Don't overdo on weight training.While weight training is as essential as cardiovascular exercise, older Americans can benefit from very light weightlifting (as little as three to 10 pounds, in many cases) to strengthen bones and muscles and burn extra calories. And don't forget to train your legs: Keeping your lower body strong can help prevent falls and dangerous hip injuries.
Want more breaking equality news & trending entertainment stories?
Check out our NEW 24/7 streaming service: the Advocate Channel!
Download the Advocate Channel App for your mobile phone and your favorite streaming device!
From our Sponsors
Most Popular
Before AIDS, gay artist Rex drew hot men on the prowl — then he disappeared
April 11 2024 3:15 PM
Diets that mimic fasting reverse aging: study
March 07 2024 5:28 PM
PrEP without a prescription now a reality in California
February 06 2024 8:37 PM
Injectable HIV treatment, prevention: Everything you need to know
March 26 2024 3:28 PM
8 dating tips for gay men from a gay therapist
March 21 2024 2:50 PM
Happy national foreskin day!
April 04 2024 1:45 PM
The science behind U=U has been liberating people with HIV for years
June 04 2024 3:31 PM
Scarlet fever: exploring our fascination with blood
March 13 2024 1:47 PM
On Anal Sex Day, crack up with The Bottom's Digest
April 18 2024 10:22 AM
Plus: Featured Video
Latest Stories
Activist and philanthropist Bruce Bastian dies at 76
June 26 2024 1:28 PM
Yes, HIV-positive people can safely breastfeed
June 26 2024 12:59 PM
Exclusive: We kiki with Q from 'RuPaul's Drag Race'
June 24 2024 11:37 AM
Court rules to keep PrEP coverage under Obamacare
June 21 2024 5:42 PM
In honor of Juneteenth 2024, meet The Normal Anomaly
June 19 2024 1:39 PM
What is Juneteenth?
June 19 2024 11:30 AM
As Pride party season begins, the CDC urges mpox vaccinations
May 16 2024 6:52 PM
Advocacy in action with AIDSWatch
May 09 2024 12:30 PM
The Talk: Thriving with HIV
May 08 2024 10:45 AM
The Talk: What HIV isn’t
May 07 2024 10:48 AM
The Talk: Finding balance with HIV
May 06 2024 10:51 AM
Justice Dept plans to reschedule marijuana as a lower-risk drug
May 03 2024 2:40 PM
The Talk: Starting your journey with HIV
May 03 2024 2:00 PM
Why is a mother’s mental health so important? A doctor explains
May 01 2024 1:38 PM
Walmart to close all of its health care clinics
April 30 2024 12:30 PM
Vampire facial spa infected several women with HIV
April 29 2024 7:26 PM