One of the most frequently asked questions to me is about quick fixes for weight loss and my answer to all women, irrespective of their age, is to stay fit and healthy. That is all they need in order to heal themselves, paving the way for a healthier life. Listed below are a few guidelines for women to remain healthy and fit through all their life-altering stages.
For women in their 20s
Women in their twenties must begin to take charge of their health and fitness in order to delay effects of ageing, maintain their muscles and bones and sculpt the body that they desire. Cardio exercises like aerobics, kickboxing, boot camp, dancing, flexibility exercises like power yoga and pilates are a must. Also, resistance training using light weights and props like terra bands are recommended. Avoid the use of heavy weights like heavy dumbbells, plates, and barbells as these make you look less appealing and feminine.
For women in their 30s and 40s
Women who are thirty and above need to take extra care as they are on the threshold of a plethora of changes in their personal life. Marriage, pregnancy, motherhood and career can take a toll on their body and health. Between the ages of thirty and forty, emphasis must be on muscle strength and definition, improved bone density and heightened metabolism. This is also the period for lifestyle diseases like hypertension, diabetes, heart ailments, obesity, slow weight loss, lowered metabolism and increased body fat percentage. These years are perhaps the best time to make fitness and good eating habits a way of life. To be fit at this age, one needs to work harder. Focus on exercises like yoga and pilates for core strength and flexibility. Also perform strength training with light weights and cardiovascular exercises like cycling or walking.
For women above 50
From the age of fifty, a woman’s life is marked by hormonal changes, slow metabolism, reduced lean muscles, weight gain and changes in body composition. All these can lead to ungainly and unhealthy fat depositions on the waist and hips. Premenopausal symptoms, hypertension, diabetes, osteoporosis are a few maladies common from this age onwards. Avoid exercises like jogging, aerobics, heavy weight training, boot camp and such high intensity and impact exercises to prevent injuries, strains and sprains. The ideal workouts are cycling, swimming, brisk walks, yoga, power yoga, pilates, calisthenics and light weights for strength training.
It is my sincere advice that women should not be obsessed with quick weight loss formulas. Think positively about the various types of exercises available for you, understand and listen to your body and enjoy your workouts under competent guidance. Do not forget that food plays a crucial role in influencing your mood, positivity and health. Include wholesome foods like millets, whole grains, oats, beans, sprouts, seasonal vegetables and fruits, and nuts to keep you nourished, regulated and revitalized.
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