Let's be honest: the thought of exercising often brings up a sense of dread.

Many of us create countless excuses, with "lack of time" being the most popular. But let’s be real — we all know how essential it is.

Exercise is not about achieving that six-pack or preparing for marathons; it’s about maintaining independence, preventing falls, and keeping our strength for those who depend on us. Like many, my priorities regarding exercise have changed over the years.

In my twenties, it was all about aesthetics, fueled by those classic Jane Fonda workout tapes. But now, at 61, I'm focused on health and balance. Exercise has shifted from a chore to a necessity—for me and my family.

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 Opening & Fall Risk Stats
• 00:01:00 The Real Reason to Exercise
• 00:02:30 My Personal Fitness Journey
• 00:04:00 Exercise Anxiety & Gym Intimidation
• 00:05:30 Signs of Aging & Simple Solutions
• 00:07:00 Recommending Movement Options
• 00:11:30 It's Never Too Late to Start
• 00:12:30 Budget-Friendly Fitness
• 00:14:30 Walking Groups & Community Ideas
• 00:16:30 Final Encouragement & Caregiver Tips

As a caregiver to my husband, Mark, who suffered multiple strokes, and as the breadwinner of my household with a daughter in college, excuses come easily. Yet, reaching 61 served as a wake-up call. I need to stay fit not just for myself but for those relying on me.

Gyms have always intimidated me. However, it was a revelation when a friend recommended Pilates. It offered a non-threatening environment among peers of all ages, and to my surprise, it hooked me. The classes fly by, and though they challenge muscles I didn’t know I had, they’re invigorating!

We know the major risks of not exercising are weak muscles and poor balance, notably problematic as we age. Simple activities like Tai Chi can enhance balance, flexibility, and strength, as can yoga and Pilates. Resistance training using weights or bands adds to core strength, crucial for preventing falls. Moreover, staying active doesn’t have to be costly or complicated.

Leisure walking is an excellent, low-impact start for increasing endurance. For those on a budget, free online resources or affordable local community centers, such as senior centers and YMCAs, offer various exercise classes. Medicare beneficiaries could explore Silver Sneakers for cost-effective programs.

For those who haven’t found their exercise niche, give different activities a try—whether it’s dancing, water aerobics, or chair exercises; there’s something for everyone and every mobility level. Move when and how you can; explore free resources on platforms like YouTube. As we move into sunnier days, let’s seize this opportunity to take our health into our own hands.

Exercise is a commitment to ourselves, bolstering our physical and mental well-being. As we age, keeping active is a gift to ourselves — one that promises energy, resilience, and peace of mind.

So, let me know what you’re doing to keep moving. Your journey inspires me, and together we can encourage one another to maintain our health and vitality. Our ultimate goal is to prevent those falls and to adopt a mindset where exercise is good. Thanks for joining me today. I invite you to subscribe for more discussions every Friday, and remember, it’s never too late to start investing in your health. Let’s thrive, not just survive.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Get my new book, 'Surrounded by Love: One's Family Journey Through Stroke Recovery': https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/book

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https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

Tai Chi Episode:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/20bd1c8b/238-shes-80-and-still-practices-tai-chi-every-day-heres-why-you-should-too

How to Senior Proof a Home:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/eb819d29/103-replay-how-to-senior-proof-a-home-on-a-budget

Fall prevention:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/1e9c24c0/159-are-you-at-risk-of-falling-in-your-home

Staying active as you age:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/2d439fdf/056-the-importance-of-maintaining-exercise-health-and-vitality-as-we-age

Silver Sneakers program:

https://tools.silversneakers.com/