Exercise After 50 (Oh Joy)
Who needs to go to the Gym?
I have never had a desk job. I have always worked at a job that is physical. I have always worked either in stores, either the sales floor with customers or unloading trucks and stocking merchandise. I have also worked other services. Always bending, stretching,lifting, hauling heavy machinery or heavy carts. Everything was always physical.
When my kids were younger, I was right there, with them running jumping and playing. A few years ago, I tried to teach my granddaughter how to play Hop-Scotch. I felt a lot of pain. Here's a tip to all grandparents...don't teach Hopping games. Aside from that, I found myself to be quite strong.
Because of my work, I used to clown around saying "Who needs to go to the gym?" The DOWN side...if someone would ask me to go for a walk...I would really have to think about it...since I was always on my feet all day. The UP side ..I had more stamina than plenty of other folks. I could stand on lines longer and had better endurance in my walks because my body was used to walking and standing a lot. This was still true even this year, and I am in my mid-50's.
Life's curve-ball
However, this year I have faced unemployment and found myself not being very physical.
My body is feeling the change. So, I decided that I will use this time to walk my dog a little more and take walks with my husband. Yes, I NEED the long walks!
Then, there is yard work to do and I will gladly do it...just to keep my body active. Hey, hand me that chainsaw, I can handle this...I have used it earlier this year, it's a great work-out. I even helped my husband put up a roof on a shed.
Today, my mother-in-law invited me to her exercise club, as a guest. There were machines that stretched the legs and thighs...it hurt so good. I also used a machine that strengthened the upper arms...my goodness it feels great.
I enjoyed myself tremendously because I used the stationary bike and tried to figure out my heart rate ( I must be dead, cause I could not find out how to use that device!!!) After the work-out, we went to the nice, heated pool for more exercise. I truly feel energized and invigorated. Right now as I am writing this, all my muscles are saying "thank You!"
I do not hurt right now , however, I will let you know how I wake up.
