Making My Moves…That’s Wassup

Making My Moves… That's Wassup


I've procrastinated for nearly six weeks in writing this article. My primary reason – no one wants to read another article about exercising. So, I've decided to put my spin on it.


I had my annual checkup in early November. Things looked good. I was reminded to schedule my mammogram and to . . . exercise. My primary care doctor said I should have an exercise routine by the time I return in 6 months.


That was the only downside of my visit. I left the office thinking to myself . . . exercise? Ugh! Do you know how often I started an exercise regimen but quit after a month? I rode a stationary bike every day for 20 minutes in the morning. For some reason, I just wasn't motivated. I walked Piper during the summer four days a week in the mornings and in the afternoons. Then it grew too hot. She didn't like walking in the heat, and neither did I.


What a dreadful feeling. It's been bugging me ever since I left the doctor's office. I can't afford the expense of a gym. By the time I work for eight hours, cook, and clean, I only want to sit down.


Yeah, I work at a computer all day. But, it's a different kind of sit down. So, I did a little bit of research. Guess what? I love to dance. I still have moves now. Don't get me wrong.


The music on my iPhone is perfect for exercising. Who can go wrong with my collection: Marvin, MJ, Prince, Barry, Parliament, Commodores, O'Jays, Gladys, Isley Brothers, Luther, Whitney, Frankie (and any old-school funk group you can think of). You get the point.


I need to put a routine to the music that will allow me to move for 30-40 minutes. Where do I start? I did additional research on YouTube. I found some great stuff that can get me going.

YouTube Exercise Videos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6lsG...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enYIT...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYuw4...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqA_T...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRWKY...


I also found information on exercising for seniors, which included dancing. Yes. I'm a senior. It's hard to believe. I made it to sixty-one years old. What a tremendous blessing. I'm going to do what's right. I'm going to exercise more regularly. It'll be an uphill battle. However, it's worth the effort.

Exercising For Seniors
https://www.seniorlifestyle.com/resou...
https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitnes...
https://seasonsretirement.com/dance-e...


I've known the Benefits Of Exercising for years:
-Controls Weight
-Combats Health conditions and diseases- prevents or manages many health problems and concerns, including:
*Stroke
*Metabolic syndrome
*High blood pressure
*Type 2 diabetes
*Depression
*Anxiety
*Many types of cancer
*Arthritis
*Falls
-Assist in improving cognitive function
-Exercise improves mood
-Boosts energy
-Promotes better sleep
-Strengthen muscles and bones
-Improve ability to perform daily activities and prevent falls


Even though I haven't consistently exercised over the years, it's never too late. Physical activity can improve health now and in the future. Exercising after a long break or exercising for the first time can make the experience seem scary if certain symptoms occur.
*Feeling: out of breath; nauseous; light-headed; clammy or sweaty; thirsty
*Burning muscles
*Urge to use the bathroom more than usual
*Body pain
*Sore muscles
*Fatigue
*Headaches


Exercise has the ability to reverse the damage done by living a sedentary lifestyle. The importance of exercising at least four to five times per week cannot be overstated. Exercise should be part of one's hygiene, like combing your hair, bathing, or brushing your teeth.


It's important that I exercise based on what I can do as an individual, my health conditions, and my age. Besides dancing, I can walk for 30 minutes daily, stretch, and do effective seat exercises. I've found seat exercise infographics on Pinterest that are appropriate for me.


There are a few notes to keep in mind regarding walking. A brisk walk is about three miles an hour faster than a stroll. I know if I'm walking fast enough if I can still talk but can't sing the words to a song. There are also free apps on your smartphone to gauge your walking measurements. The app indicates whether you're walking fast enough and suggests ways to fit in more brisk walking.


I have a notebook to record my progress. I'm ready!


If you don't exercise regularly and you're fifty-plus or older, it's not too late to start.




Edited by: Michael A. Robinson Jr
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Published on December 23, 2023 12:06 Tags: dancing, exercise, health, prevention, safety, senior-citizen, stretching, walking
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