I used to wake up in the morning and just flat out ache getting out of bed. My feet hurt, back hurt, and I just hurt all over. Why? I always said it was because I was getting older. Maybe that was it. I was 41 years old and was wishing I was back in my 20’s or even 30’s. Yeah – I know – some of you are a lot older than me saying, “Suck it up Rourke!”
I am now getting ready to turn 44 and I wake up with a lot fewer aches and pain. I will tell you why: I am active and for the most part I eat right. I am not going to get into a lot of details regarding my workouts and activities, as well as my diet. I will summarize in that I do a workout called Crossfit, I mountain bike, I run (a little), and I partake in martial arts. I do NOT sit on my arse wishing I was younger anymore. I did suck it up and got moving.
85% of my diet is based on a Paleo Diet. Basically, if it once had a face, is a vegetable, a fruit, a nut, or an egg – I eat it. It is low carb and for the most part, I really enjoy it. I have lowered my body fat percentage and lost about 13 pounds. I have another 15 or so to go. I’ll tell you – the use of Mucuna pruriens has been a boost to my exercise routine as well.
Like many preppers, I love my guns and my ammunition. Just looking at an awesome black knife with a sharp blade built to take on a gang of zombies just does it for me. Like most – I used to ignore the importance of health and fitness while emphasizing on that which I could pick up and hold in my hand.
With the reign of Obamacare just starting and the uncertainty of medical care in a potential SHTF-future – staying as healthy as possible will help avoid the healthcare system altogether – and be able to take on less-than-desirable environments better.
Now I realize not everyone is going to go deadlift 375 pounds, do 100 pull ups or run 5 miles. Still – ANYTHING more than what you are doing now will be a step in the right direction. Depending on your current physical abilities here are a few suggestions to get started:
1. Walk
Walking is better than sitting and great exercise. Start off walking a distance at a pace that you are comfortable with, and either add to the distance or increase your speed over time. The benefits go beyond just the time you are actually walking. Your body’s metabolism will increase for hours after you are finished – and your body will adapt to your walking. That is a good thing. Same as goes for jogging.
2. Weightlifting
Go join the local YMCA or gym and get a trainer to set you up on a resistance (weight) training routine. Even the elderly can benefit from weight training. Those older muscles can be challenged – and they will respond by adapting to the workload.
3. Gymnastics
No – not talking about doing back flips in the air or doing a handstand. I am talking about body-weight exercises such as push ups and squats. Think you cannot squat? What do you do every time you sit in a chair and stand up? A squat!! Push ups can be done from the knees or even up against a wall. Point is – do what you can. It’s more than what you’re doing now, right?
4. Eat right
Regardless of the “diet” you may try – eat more lean meats, fruit, vegetables. Stay away from processed foods. By the way – if it comes in a box, a pouch, or a can – it is processed.
5. Eat until your are satisfied
Most all of us overeat. Rather than eat to survive – we eat for pleasure. Eat your meal and once you are satisfied – not full – just stop. Yes – in a couple hours you may be hungry again. That is fine – eat! Listen to your body.
6. Try low carb
No bread, no pasta, no sugar. Hard? It can be, but you will feel so much better. My aches and pains went away when I did away with carbs and increased my protein intake. Carbs should ONLY be used for energy – like right before or after a workout. Milk is full of sugar and what happens to a baby when they drink lots of milk? ’nuff said.
If you are already working out – great! If not – just start moving.
Disclaimer: Prior to starting any new workout program always consult a physician…..or don’t. After all – it’s your life, isn’t it?