Special offer for CARP members (age 45+) – up to 50% off membership rates!

According to the US National Institute on Aging, there is a fountain of youth. Millions have discovered it – the secret to feeling better and living longer. It’s called staying active. Finding a program that works for you and sticking with it can pay big dividends. Regular exercise can prevent or delay diabetes and heart complications. It can reduce arthritis pain, anxiety and depression. It can also help older adults stay independent.

There are four main types of exercise and we all need some of each:
Endurance activities – like walking, swimming, or riding a bike – which build “staying power” and improve the health of the heart and circulatory system
Strengthening exercises which build muscle tissue and reduce age-related muscle loss
Stretching exercises to keep the body limber and flexible
Balance exercises to reduce the chances of a fall

Almost anyone, at any age, can do some type of physical activity. You can still exercise if you have certain health conditions; in fact, physical activity often helps. There are many activities, both inside and outside a fitness club, which can have positive impacts on your overall health and well-being. You should check with your health care provider if you are over 50 and you are not used to high-energy activity.

Here are five tips to exercising safely:

• Start slowly, especially if you haven’t been active for a long time. Little by little build up your activities and how hard you work at them.

• Don’t hold your breath during strength exercises. That could cause changes in your blood pressure.

• Unless your doctor has asked you to limit fluids, be sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after activities. Hydration is very important.

• Warm up your muscles before you stretch. Try walking and light arm pumping first.

• Listen to your body. If it’s telling you to slow down or ease off the intensity, then do so. Ensure to rest when your body gives you signals. Exercise should not hurt or make you feel really tired. You might feel some soreness, a little discomfort, or a bit weary, but you should not feel pain. Exercise should make you feel better, not worse. It’s a good idea to seek professional assistance when you’re starting a new fitness program.

CARP members (age 45+) enjoy up to 50% savings on GoodLife’s regular club memberships. Benefits to you include improved level of endurance and strength, improved quality of life and greater longevity, increased energy levels and concentration, reduction of stress, physical and mental strain. This special offer also extends to your family members living at the same address.

As a GoodLife Fitness member, you will have access to over 280 clubs across Canada with a wide variety of amenities including state-of-the-art cardio and weight machines, personalized health plan to assess current fitness level and goals, Group EXercise classes for all levels, 20 minute Fit Fix Circuit, Shower towel service, and more.

To get started with your GoodLife Fitness membership please call 1-800-363-9736 or visit goodlifefitness.com/carp

For a full list of club locations, visit goodlifefitness.com

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