05/27/2019
Heart Smart Fitness for Seniors
Are seniors over the age of 60 who play tennis twice a week or more and lift weights regularly risking a heart attack? Seniors and those with a family history of heart disease should not ignore the risks. However, risks can be reduced if simple steps are followed.- Don't exercise for 2 to 3 hours after eating a large meal. The heart muscle itself needs all of the blood it can get and the digestion process diverts some of that blood to the stomach and intestines.
- Don't over do it. And here's a great test to determine overexertion. If you can't talk fluidly while walking, jogging or exercising, then slow down. If you can talk and exercise, you're in your training zone.
- Finally, pay attention to warning signs. Dizziness, nausea, weakness, shortness of breath or chest pains are warnings to stop exercising and see a doctor.
