2 Things I wish people better understood about their body as they age!

Getting old is something that awaits the majority of us. While we may feel we understand what usually happens as we age, I feel we don’t truly understand what is happening at a structural level - and how important our daily behaviours can be to shift the scales in your favour!

Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis.

These are 2 of the more common conditions that we are likely to encounter at some point as we age. Osteoporosis refers to the reduction in bone density(think brittle bones) and osteoarthritis - the natural age related degenerative changes that happen at each joint over time. While it is normal to see these age related changes occur in our bones as we age - we can be a lot more proactive in how we slow down, manage and in some cases prevent these issues from affecting our quality of life. To combat this we continue to encourage activities such as weightlifting to help improve bone density and overall strength and function.

Sarcopenia.

One of the silent attacks that we often don’t realize until we reach a certain age or realise an inability to complete certain tasks we once found easy. The adage “if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it” really hits home here. Research suggests we lose approximately 1-2% of our muscle mass each year once we turn 40. Over 10 years that could look like a reduction of 10-20% of your muscle mass- the very thing that helps us to do what we do day to day while staying strong and mobile. Of course - this is why us physiotherapists and health professionals in general cannot recommend exercise enough when it comes to  staying strong and fit as you age. There is a method to the madness and the goal is to keep you moving for longer and getting you stronger! Lifting weights and exercise helps to offset these age related changes likely meaning a lower risk of pain and injury long term and a better quality of life!

If you are on the fence about online coaching and want to know a little bit more about the process - just email me the word “ready” and I will be in touch! Please get in touch through the contact information below to check availability and avoid disappointment as spaces are limited! Please visit my new website www.coachedbycashel.com for more info!

Lastly, I would also like to clarify that I am not a registered dietician. All advice disclosed here is simply advisory based on my qualifications as a fitness professional and personal experience and knowledge gained working with individuals and helping them reach their goals. The advice given is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem - nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health. 

I hope someone out there found some of this information useful here, just some food for thought. For any questions in relation to this topic or training, nutrition, etc. or for coaching inquiries simply message me on my business page on instagram @coachedbycashel_ or by email - contact@coachedbycashel.com