By Rachel Maxwell

rachel@centerfit.net

Modern conveniences have made us less physically active. Most of us drive wherever we go. The only time we get out and walk or ride a bicycle is when we do it as recreation. The more sedentary we are, the less we move our bodies. Without regular movement, our bodies become weak and stiff. Do you sit at a desk much of your day? Do you drive a lot for your work? Do you sit down and watch a lot of TV?

Tight joints

Unless you’re getting good exercise on a regular basis, the joints in your hips and knees will become tight. Your legs will become weak. If they aren’t stiff and weak yet, give it time. They will be. As we age, our hip and knee joints become stiff. Reaching down to put on our shoes becomes difficult. This can be the start of a downward spiral. I see this with many of my older clients. When it gets too difficult to lean over and tie their shoes they solve the problem by wearing slip-ons. Slippers and slip-on shoes are easier to put on but easy to slip off. This causes you to grip them with your toes and stiffen your feet and ankle muscles as you walk. This causes even more weakness in your feet. Your toes aren’t spreading out to give you a wider base. The muscles in your feet aren’t moving properly. All this affects your balance.

Weak muscles

What starts out as tight hips and weakened leg muscles turns into a cycle of immobility. This leads to a shortened or shuffling gait and balance issues. Do you know anyone who fits this description? Pass this advice along to them – and start moving every day. If you are “too busy” or “don’t feel like” exercising, you will fall into a cycle of immobility. Whatever age you are, now is the perfect time to start using those muscles and joints. You can preserve your mobility and independence.