Muscle atrophy is a normal part of aging, but we can actually do more ourselves to help this part of the body than almost any other part...we can control the conditioning and reconditioning of our muscles to a significant degree and the results are extremely beneficial.  What are seniors most afraid of? One thing is falling.  Recovering from a broken bone is very slow and sometimes not even possible when our muscles and bones have weakened too much.  By strengthening our bodies, we have better balance, and in the less-likely event of a fall, we have the agility and arm/hand strength to catch ourselves more safely.  Are you concerned about osteoporosis? While I harp on paying attention to our daily nutrition, getting enough protein, calcium and Vitamin D, I also must note that diet is not enough... you must include exercise, specifically weight resistance training in your regular self care. The very best way I've found to do this is by using the BioDensity machine - it only takes a few minutes once a week and it's designed so I can't hurt myself trying to lift weights or use equipment at a typical gym.   You need to experience it for yourself and if you mention this blog when you call the Kaizen Total Wellness Center you can schedule a complimentary session where a certified fitness professional will demonstrate the BioDensity machine with you so you can try it out with no cost or obligation.  The computer-measured results we see are increased bone density and muscle strength.  Please read about it further on our site and also the science of it here: http://www.biodensity.com/Science.html

Just five minutes of light exercise right when you wake up in the morning can get your day off to a great start.  You'll get the "feel good" endorphins flowing and you'll set the tone for healthy food choices throughout the day.  Try this quick routine right when you wake up tomorrow morning: 1) 30 seconds of "punch the air" - Hold both hands up in front of your face, fists clenched.  Punch one arm out and bring it back as you punch the other out.  Go out and back, alternating arms without stopping for 30 seconds.
2) 1 minute of "high knees"- Like you're marching in place, lift one knee all the way up, then back down.  Lift the alternate knee up right when the other touches the ground.  March in place for a minute.
3) 30 seconds of punch the air
4) 1 minute of high knees
5) 2 minutes of any stretches you'd like

As, always call Kaizen Total Wellness at 941-556-7785 for more information on how to better your overall health.