Why Should 65+ Do Shed and Shred? Here's Why!

by Heather Szczepiorkowski

Are you wanting to have more energy in your life?  Do you remember when it cost 24 cents to go to see Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca.  Do you think there is not much you can do about your energy level, because you are getting older?

 Would you like to be able to say:

"And I am stronger and have more stamina than before (and am 69 years old.)"

"This time last year I was using a cane, I had no energy and was involved in extensive physical therapy for my knees...on Thursday I held a plank for 1:40...I think when I started in Jan I did 30 seconds from my knees."

These comments are from past participants of Shed and Shred. http://uvac-swim.org/fitness/shed-and-shred-/

Do you have to be really excited about exercise?  Again more honest feedback from former participants! 

·        "This experience has been life changing for me. Before this program I led a completely sedentary lifestyle. Although I can't say that I love exercising, I'm pleasantly surprised by what I'm able to do each week and how far I've come since the beginning."

·        "It got me out of my rut of poor eating and lack of exercise. It was easy and effective to track my eating, and the workouts were great."

So what is this Shed and Shred? http://uvac-swim.org/fitness/shed-and-shred-/
It is an intensive six or eight week training program for weight loss, strength and cardiovascular fitness. It includes the benefits of the expertise of a personal trainer with the support of a small group setting.

Now the facts!

One study in New Zealand on women 80 years of age and older showed a 40% reduction in falls with simple strength and balance training.

 Results from a study conducted at Tufts University, which were published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 1994, showed that strength training increases bone density and reduces the risk for fractures among women aged 50-70.

There are numerous benefits to strength training regularly, particularly as you grow older. It can be very powerful in reducing the signs and symptoms of numerous diseases and chronic conditions, among them:

·        Arthritis relief

·        Restoration of balance and reduction of falls

·        Strengthening of bone

·        Improved glucose control

·        Healthier state of mind

And if you want more info I will include some links for you to click on

http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/growingstronger/why/index.html

http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/news/20090708/strength-training-is-good-for-seniors

http://bit.ly/1jQ9qrF