Livin’ Right
Although there are many lifespan factors that are beyond our control; there are just as many practices that are well within reach that can help us make it closer to our 100th birthday.
Someone once asked me during a conversation about ways to prolong death, why I would want to? Some days when I feel defeated by new aches, wrinkles and ailments related to age, I ask myself the same question.
After snapping out of self-pity mode, my answer is usually the same—I don’t want to just postpone the inevitable. Living long is not my goal unless I feel good and have the energy and mobility to do the things I love.
Researchers from the Huffington Post sought the advice of centenarians themselves and found there are a hundred ways to improve your odds of living a long, healthful life. I chose to share my five favorite fitness remedies from people who should know!
1) Walk – a lot
“The 123-year-old Carmelo Flores Laura, potentially the oldest living person documented, says he owes his longevity to regular exercise. ‘I walk a lot, that’s all. I go out with the animals,’ Flores told the Associated Press.” My grandmother had this belief and spent a portion of every day walking with purpose.
2) Remember who you are
Jack LaLanne, who passed away at the age of 96 in 2011, was a fitness guru and knew the importance of looking after yourself. “This is where I take care of the most important person in my life: me,” he joked talking about the gym in the documentary How To Live Forever.
“Exercise is king. Nutrition is queen. Put them together and you’ve got a kingdom.” I love this philosophy and believe this is the one example of selfishness that should really be considered self-care.
3) Moderate jogging
Jogging can add between five and six years to your life, “according to 2012 analysis of data from the Copenhagen City Heart study.”
This is the one time when experts agree however, that less is more. Jogging less than 20 miles a week at a five mile per hour pace will give you a longevity boost—runs lasting longer and at a faster pace may feel good but won’t earn you any extra time at the finish.
4) Stay active
“Take it from the iconic funny lady Betty White, who, at age 91, is still good and energetic.” She told People magazine last year that she owes her health to being “active all the time”. “To be 90 … and still be working—that’s not what I would have expected. I’m the luckiest broad on two feet.”
5) Take the plunge
“Swimming may be the sport to beat when it comes to longevity. A study in the International Journal of Aquatic Education and Research showed that compared with running, walking or being sedentary, swimming cut death risk for men by 50 percent.”
Just ask anyone who swims —working out in water offers natural resistance that is low impact and safe for all ages.
Live longer with purpose, and getting older can bring many blessings. Strive to be the Betty White or Jack LaLanne of your generation. We may not be able to control genetics or medical history, but it’s never too late to start a family legacy for future generations.
Comments or questions email: suzannemcginnis@me.com.