Aging and Sport

 

Ask yourself this simple question. Should you stop doing sport as you get older? The answer is no, unless your are physically unable to partake in sport because or a physical or personal reason...but if you can partake then why stop?  

 

Indeed, consider this scenario, you have been a Short Track Speed Skater for many years, and you may have even been competing at a national or international world level, representing your country along the way....so when this is all over why should you stop speed skating?  Many top athletes payback our fantastic sport through coaching or go into the sports administration or officialdom, but still......why stop training (or even competing). 

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It is true that ageing is a natural process that affects every part of the body, including the muscles, bones, joints, and cardiovascular system.

 

In sports, and short track speed skating, ageing will lead to a decline in physical performance due to the gradual loss of muscle mass and strength, decreased flexibility and mobility, and a decrease in cardiovascular fitness.

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However, it has been shown that regular exercise and physical activity can help to slow down the ageing process and provide numerous benefits for older adults.

 

Here are some of the benefits of continued exercise as one gets older: -

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1. Improved cardiovascular health: Regular exercise can help to maintain a healthy heart and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.

2. Increased muscle strength and flexibility: Resistance training can help to maintain muscle mass and strength, while stretching exercises can improve flexibility and range of motion.

3. Better balance and coordination: Activities like yoga, tai chi, and balance training can help to improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

4. Enhanced mental health: Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline, as well as improve overall mood and well-being. However this has to be balanced against recreational sport versus competitive sport. Just because we get older, our minds are often as competitive as ever....we are just a bit more rationale about it. Ask any Masters Short Track Speed Skater!

5. Reduced risk of chronic diseases: Regular exercise can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and certain types of cancer.

6. Improved quality of life: By maintaining physical function and independence, regular exercise can help to improve overall quality of life and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

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In summary, while ageing can lead to a decline in physical performance, continued exercise and physical activity can help to slow down the ageing process and provide numerous benefits for older adults, including improved cardiovascular health, increased muscle strength and flexibility, better balance and coordination, enhanced mental health, reduced risk of chronic diseases, and improved quality of life.

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