Preview of Your Coming Attractions

When I retired after 40 years of writing columns for the San Jose Mercury News, I figured I'd said about all I could say. Wrong. I've realized that at age 76, I'm about 10 years older than the oldest baby boomers, who are now turning 66. My very average body has had a lot of experiences in those 10 years. I've learned a lot that could be helpful to people just starting on that same path -- what to do, what to avoid, what to keep an eye on.. Consider me your canary-in-the-coalmine for the boomer generation. Tune in regularly for the heads-up advice.

Monday, May 14, 2012

Bottoms Up


     Medical science keeps saying that as we age, our bodies begin losing strength from the bottom up, and so I keep reminding you, too.
     When they say the bottom goes first, they’re not talking about our buns (although gravity does have an effect and mine are a lot saggier than they used to be). No, they’re talking about our feet and legs, which means we have to work to combat that if we’re to maintain a semblance of our once-youthful vigor.
     The easiest exercise for this part of the body is walking. If you can, set aside a regular period of time to get out there and walk. But don’t get distressed if you don’t have the time for a regular walking regimen. You can sneak in steps during the day. Take the long way around if you’re doing something around the house or job. Always use the stairs, not the elevator. Don’t stay glued to your desk but try to make regular laps around the office.. You’ll find you think more clearly and your productivity will go up.
     When you’re seated, always try to stand up without using your arms to push off. It’s simple if you learn forward first.
     And work on your balance every day. Simple exercise: stand heel to toe for at least 10 seconds without tipping. Switch feet and do it again. You’ll feel your leg muscles working as you do so.
     That’s the whole idea.

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