Without even realizing it I have discovered the ultimate way to age gracefully. Lifting weights was the farthest thing from my mind when thoughts of advancing years entered my brain. Everything I saw or read concerning aging was about wrinkles, weight gain aches, pains, low libido, mental deterioration, etc. Enough already!
I originally began weightlifting partly because I enjoy exercise and mostly to stave off osteoperosis (I currently am diagnosed with osteopenia). I never dreamed that I would be so committed to my regimen (actually Cathe’s DVD’s!). It is now the top priority of my day.
AS I’ve grown older, I’ve encountered many challenges. Both of my in-laws needed my help with their mental and physical hardships. My Mom struggled with Alzheimer’s for 20 years.My Dad suffered through cancer. They, too, needed my support. My latest and most difficult trial has been my husband’s diagnosis of cancer. I sat with him through 4 tough rounds of chemo and have slowly but surely seen him regain his hair and his strength!
My biggest outlet for my stress was exercise. Whether it was walking my buns off on the treadmill, doing Pilates or lifting weights, I felt a great sense of relief after a workout session. I will admit that I had a meltdown or two and sobbed my little heart out, too but I think the exercise helped to exorcise all the pent-up emotion.
Lately, though, I’ve discovered something when I look in the mirror. Wow, I have a trimmer figure. I actually see some ab muscles. My clothes fit better! And, hallelujah, I’ve lost 10 pounds! Appearance aside, my posture is better, my self-confidence is higher, I’m stronger and more energetic (helps the libido!!).
So there you have it. Time was I did not welcome getting older. I’ve now discovered that it’s up to me to adjust my attitude and do something about it – exercise is my gift to myself, my husband, my son and 1st grandchild (due June 4 by the way). Guess I am like fine wine; I’m getting better with age!!
Way to go! You’re an inspiration to us all. Showing that exercise is the path to physical and mental health! Thank you for sharing!
PS: Congrats on your 1st grandchild!
linda
Wow !! You are phenomenal and should be incredibly proud of yourself ! And you look terrific – keep working hard ! 🙂
Great job. Weight lifing is much better than plastic surgery. Everyone wants a quick fix, but good ole fashion hard work is the remedy. I plan on aging gracefully with a 20lb weight in my hand. Keep it up. You look great and you look happy.
You should be very proud that you are taking care of #1 yourself because without that you cant devote your time and energy to others. Exercise helps the mind, the body and the spirit. I know it lifts my spirits tremendously and makes everything I do that day not seem to be such a chore.
You go girl! And best wishes to you and your husband!
Bravo for you! You are an inspiration to women of all ages.You look healthy and with your healthy, positive outlook on life, imagine where you will be a year from now! (We want updates!)
Best wishes for continued health to you and your hubby…and congrats on your new grandchild! And oh yeah…hurray for that libido boost. Ha!
What a wonderful story! You sure have been challenged along the way and I truly admire your positive outlook and energy! And, sometimes a good cry does the heart & soul good! Big hugs to you and speedy recovery wishes to your DH!
Nice to see a success story from a more mature lady like myself. Very encouraging.
So happy to read your story. I am 68 and wonder about how and what women my age are doing. I do intermediate type exercises and Zumba. You are an inspiration to me.
I am proud to announce an update: my grandson was born healthy and happy at 9 lbs.! on June 2, 2010. What an upper for me and my husband! Mom is doing great, too. And my son is such a proud papa!
I saw that someone on Facebook asked my age. Well, I’m 60 – and on July 23 will be 61! Can’t believe I forgot to mention that little tidbit!!
You look fantastic! Thanks for sharing.
Reading this was an upper for me. Rock on!
Just looking at you is an inspiration! I like your motivating idea that we can adjust our attitude and make healthy choices in our lives. Thank you. Also, congratulations for your first grandchild!
I have a question, which Cathe DVD did you begin with?
Yes, congratulations to you for discovering what a great anti-agining tool working out is. I just want to let you all know there are some more seniors out here who love working out, who love Cathe’s routines. I am 74 yrs. old and work out at least 3x/week at a gym. Days that I don’t go to the gym I utilize the “balance ball”, bosu and hand weights in my home. My physician says I have a well “tuned” and well toned body and that he actually doesn’t believe my real age. My daughter, who is also my best friend, is a personal trainer and is a great motivator for me to continue on this anti-aging path. I’m so glad I am “into fitness” and can enjoy a great quality of life when others who are sedentary sit back and moan and groan about getting old!
Young at 74
WOW! What you said is hard to get people to see as a benefit. Lifting weights is not for weight loss, but it also helps release stress, and get our heads clear.
You are awesome. Thank you for having the courage to encourage us all.