WEIGHT LOSS: EXERCISE

A regular exercise programme is essential. This does not mean setting yourself something you cannot possibly achieve, like jogging round the block in the cold. This is boring. You only need to look at the faces of people doing it. It also can be dangerous during the middle years.

For some reason many women do not feel that regular exercise is part of their scene. But regular outdoor activity could be golf, tennis, gardening, or anything that keeps you out of doors and in action, and in addition gives you a regular, uplifting, outside interest that makes you feel good and allows you to see people.

Don’t put it off just because it is bad weather; a true saying is that there is no bad weather, only bad clothes for it – buy a good jumper.

Housework no longer provides exercises to the same extent as it once did. Instead of scrubbing and washing, we have labour-saving devices. Use the time saved for exercise that is more fun.

Your appearance will improve. Well-toned muscles make you walk well and feel good, prevent stiffening of the joints and make you look years younger. You are never too old; you should continue exercising to any age if your doctor considers your health allows it.

Regular exercise helps you to lose weight. If your food intake is not balanced by output and exercise, the result is surplus weight around your body – another reason for regular exercise. A regular exercise programme should be done daily. Time must be set aside for it, and remember, however many calls on your time from your children, your partner or your grandchildren, you have to see you set the time aside and do it.

The most important exercises are for your middle and your pelvic floor at this stage. Back and shoulder exercises are also important. They take, at the most, ten minutes a day.