Over 50? how do you keep fit?

silverwhistle

Grumpy_chap said:

Remember, when chasing a goal, external factors such as terrain, temperature, humidity, time of day make a big difference plus internal factors such as energy levels.  

And how! I was watching a long sea rowing race yesterday, and was so glad I did it last year and not this! The crews were coming in exhausted and bathed in sweat.

Nebulous2

Grumpy_chap said:

Organgrinder said:

Well after 7 exercise free weeks (lots of coughs, colds, maybe COVID, I did 30 gentle minutes on my bike yesterday. Fingers crossed, but I feel I can carry on. Maybe another 30-45 mins tonight! :-)

Rest & Relaxation can sometimes be as important as exercise.
Diet must not be forgotten either.

I also think, as well, we cannot always chase a PB, but I try to get today better than yesterday.  That is always a realistic aim given current form and, if missed today, then tomorrow gets a bit easier so the opportunity to achieve today a bit better than yesterday and the feeling of success is a more regular thing.

Remember, when chasing a goal, external factors such as terrain, temperature, humidity, time of day make a big difference plus internal factors such as energy levels.  

Sometimes on the bike it all comes together, my legs are on fire, and I'm eating up the miles. It brings a real sense of wellbeing. 

Then I turn for home, and reality strikes, as I realise I'm battling a significant headwind...... 

Murphybear

Ayr_Rage said:

Swim, good for oldies and no chance of getting knocked off.

Good idea for anyone with major joint problems.  After 5 knee operations I struggle with walking a lot but love swimming.  We have a private girls school about 2 minutes away and they have a beautiful leisure centre that is open to the public.  The swimming pool is lovely and a monthly ticket for pensioners is cheaper than the nearest  council leisure centre and it is a lot less crowded.  

LateStarter

I play badminton for a an hour twice every week. But with time (going to be 60 in September), I'm finding the next day aches getting worse, especially in the feet. I also try for a long walk every week (a couple of hours is long for me). I used to cycle but that needs decent weather, so it's an occasional hobby now.

I do worry what will happen if the foot pain increases.

Grumpy_chap

LateStarter said:

I'm finding the next day aches getting worse, especially in the feet.

I do worry what will happen if the foot pain increases.

It might be worth visiting a Podiatrist / Chiropodist.
Also check your shoes for good fit and support - even if shoes were once good, they can change with wear and it is a gradual evolution so the change is not necessarily noticed.

As for aching the day after exercise, I found that when I returned to exercise but then as I increased my activity level, found that the post-exercise aches reduced.  This is for muscular aches and it has a name - DOMS - Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness.  With the increased activity, the muscles grow in strength and the post-exercise pain reduces.  
That is only my experience, though, and your pain may not be muscular.  Consult a Medical Professional to assess the nature of the pain you are experiencing.  (I said "Medical Professional" as the correct skill required may vary depending upon the symptoms - it may be a GP, or a Chiropodist or Chiropractor may be more appropriate.)

EDIT TO ADD:  Whatever exercise you do, warm up, cool down and proper stretching is essential to prevent muscles stiffening and aching.

Alnat1

Options of lane swims (usually do 70 x 25m) either Sunday or Monday, aquafit Tuesday, badminton Wednesday morning, pilates in the evening, another aquafit on Friday, various walks with a local group. Don't do all of them every week but try and do 4.

Organgrinder

Pleased to report I'm now 6 weeks in to riding my bike again.

Done some great virtual climbs of late. Hautacam, Le Col de la Madeleine and le Col d'Aspin all in the last week.

Happy days