The old saying is when it comes to getting older; you're as young as you feel.

Well if you don't exercise on a very regular and vigorous basis you won't feel very young whatever your age. It is a shame that society accepts and even encourages a lack of activity among people as they get older.

We are told to "take it easy", "slow down" and "to age gracefully". This sounds a lot like "idly" doesn't it? We start to practice getting old - start taking smaller steps, moving more slowly, taking time to get up out of a chair. We start to think "old thoughts" and "old thoughts" lead to "old people" behaviors because this is what we think society expects of us.

We see others slow down as they age so we believe its normal therefore, we slow down and "take it easy" too...and then proceed to fall apart, lose function, deteriorate, and decay. A human body not properly used will waste away into a frail, weak shell. It must be used or you are very definitely going to lose it.

Listen up - we do not have to experience the effects of aging as most people perceive it in our culture. We do not have to succumb to illness and disease and experience physical and mental decline. We get old and decrepit because we aren't active enough and because we believe it's normal to become old and decrepit.

It has been proven that more than 50 percent of the decline in functioning - weak muscles, stiff joints, low energy levels etc - is actually due to disuse and is not a normal consequence of age. The body is designed to last at least 100 years and is supposed to move well and function well at this age, but the chances of spotting a sprightly 100 year old are pretty remote.

The "disuse" syndrome makes you feel old, so you act old and this leads a downward spiral of becoming less and less active. The newest focus, however, is on protecting yourself against the many degenerative diseases and conditions that were once thought to be a natural part of aging.

A new body of research on physical activity and the aging process shows that a healthy lifestyle full of exercise can make you look and feel years younger. Studies have shown that exercise may be the closest known thing to a fountain of youth. Regular vigorous exercise combats the effects of aging by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, stimulating circulation and reducing the risk of heart attack, heart disease and stroke. It strengthens bones, tones muscles, fosters weight loss, relieves stress, increases energy levels and boosts your mood, all of which helps you look and feel younger.

If you're in a panic now because you're 40, 50, or 60 or older and you haven't been exercising, don't worry because here's the good news: it is NEVER too late; you don't have to let this "disuse" syndrome effect you.

Enter strength training exercise and its benefits. Here is something that will improve muscle tone, increase flexibility, power, endurance, and help you lose unwanted body fat. Strength training is a challenge at the mental, spiritual, and physical levels and is the ultimate tonic for rejuvenating and revitalizing the body.

Get started right away and reap the priceless

, youthful health benefits of a proper exercise program As you embark on your mission remember that you are investing in something near and dear to your own heart - your life and future of healthy living.

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Strength Training Exercise, Strength Training, Training Exercise

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about the author

Do you want to discover the secret to rejuvenating your body and improving the quality of your life? Download my free ebook "I've Found the Fountain of Youth- Let Me Show You Too!” here: Physical Wellness or come visit me at Fitness Weight Loss
Carolyn Hansen is a certified fitness expert and fitness center.