As we age, it becomes increasingly important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and hospital admissions. One of the key components of a healthy lifestyle is regular exercise.

In this article, we will discuss how much exercise you need at 40 to keep hospital admissions at bay.

Benefits of Exercise

Regular exercise has numerous benefits for our physical and mental health. Exercise can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, improve lung function, and help maintain a healthy weight.

In addition, exercise can help reduce the risk of depression and anxiety, and improve cognitive function.

How Much Exercise is Recommended?

The World Health Organization recommends that adults aged 18-64 engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.

This can be achieved through activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, or jogging. It is also recommended that adults engage in muscle-strengthening activities on at least two days per week.

The Importance of Physical Activity for Older Adults

Physical activity becomes increasingly important as we age.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults over the age of 65 should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity. In addition, older adults should engage in muscle-strengthening activities on at least two days per week.

How Exercise Can Reduce Hospital Admissions

Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. By reducing the risk of these illnesses, exercise can also help reduce the risk of hospital admissions.

In addition, exercise can help improve overall physical function, which can help prevent falls and other injuries that may require hospitalization.

Types of Exercise

There are two main types of exercise: aerobic exercise and strength training. Aerobic exercise, also known as cardio, is any exercise that gets your heart rate up and increases your breathing rate.

Examples of aerobic exercise include jogging, cycling, and swimming. Strength training involves using weights or resistance bands to build muscle and improve strength. Examples of strength training exercises include push-ups, squats, and lunges.

How to Incorporate Exercise into Your Routine

If you’re new to exercise, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts. Choose activities that you enjoy and that fit into your daily routine.

You may also want to consider working with a personal trainer or taking a fitness class to help you get started.

Conclusion

In conclusion, regular exercise is an important component of a healthy lifestyle, especially as we age.

By engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week and engaging in muscle-strengthening activities, we can help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and hospital admissions. It’s never too late to start exercising, so find an activity that you enjoy and start moving!.