Many, many, many years ago I could eat a lot more and rarely gain an ounce. Now that I'm in my 40's, if I even look at those foods I gain weight--of course in all the wrong places! It's not just my imagination either. They say there's actual science to explain this. According to SHAPE Magazine's advisory board member Wayne Westcott, Ph.D., director of the fitness research program at Quincy College: "your metabolism drops about 3% every decade.... The reason: muscle burns more calories than any other tissue in the body and you're losing about a 1/2 pound of it annually!"
Suggestions:
Cardio is great for melting fat during a workout, but if you want to keep that metabolism torched then you need to strength train! Strength training is the key to burning an extra 100 calories. It's also the best way to build muscles quickly!
I suggest a minimum of 20-30 minutes, at least 2-3 times a week. Make sure to challenge yourself with the weights, but don't over do it. As always, FORM 1st!
The reason I love fitness routines such as Barre Toning, Pilates, TRX training is that they are all low impact, lower weight, yet using your own body muscle as resistance. Much easier on the aging body, yet still greatly benefiting and getting the desired results!
Another suggestion, according to Dr Westcott "what you eat post workout matters. Soon after you cool off, you should eat a combo of protein and complex carbs. A glass of milk, cup of yogurt, or a small protein shake are all good choices." He goes on the say "protein helps you build muscle, and you'll be consuming it at a time when you need it the most.....it's also satiating, so you'll be less inclined to reach for junk food later in the day."
Sorry friends, staying fit never gets "easier", it's a LIFE lesson! So make it a part of your lifestyle and you'll feel (& look) great no matter your age!
Credit: SHAPE Magazine, Oct 2010
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