Use it or Lose it…myth or truth?
We all have heard to old saying, “you have to use it or you will lose it”. With all the new information about fitness these days, does this still apply? Unfortunately the answer is ABSOLUTELY YES!
For most people, as we get older, we get more and more “set in our ways”. We sit in our cars and at work. We do chores around the house. If we have time for hobbies and exercise, they tend to be the same ones done over and over. If you find yourself doing this, then almost certainly you are neglecting parts of your body and over working other parts. In order to keep your body vibrant and healthy, you must you all of your body and use it in a variety of ways.
A proper exercise routine incorporates strengthening, endurance, & flexibility for all the body parts, not just your arms or legs. If all you do is walk, you will gradually lose muscle mass, strength and flexibility. If all you do is lift weights, you will gradually lose flexibility and endurance. Try to incorporate different types of exercise on different days. Yoga one day, TRX class for strength and stability another day, a nice hike or swim for endurance another day. These are just suggestions of course….but the bottom line is that you should mix things up and use all of your body in different ways to prevent injuries and chronic pain down the road.
Until next time, be happy, healthy, and smart!
Dr. Jim
