Exercise

Is it more important to exercise when you are
young or when you are old? 

    Studies have shown that Harvard and University of
Michigan varsity letter-winners do not live longer than their
less-athletic classmates, but people who exercise regularly as
they age live three to seven years longer than non-exercisers. 
Other studies show that athletes are no lower risk of heart
attacks later in life than their less athletic peers UNLESS they
continue to exercise as they age.  Former athletes who continue
to exercise have lower blood levels of the bad LDL cholesterol,
total cholesterol, triglycerides and higher levels of the good HDL
cholesterol that prevents heart attacks. 
    It's called reversibility. Every benefit gained by exercising
is lost soon after you stop.  Muscles enlarged by lifting heavy
weights return to their previous size within a few weeks after you
stop lifting.  People who do aerobic exercise lose their slow heart
rates and greater endurance soon after they stop regular
workouts. 
    Regular exercise is the most effective way to prevent the
gradual weight gain that often comes with aging. If you're tired of
being out of shape, check with your doctor. Then pick a
continuous sport that you will enjoy doing, such as walking,
swimming, cycling or dancing. Start out by exercising slowly and
comfortably until your muscles start to feel heavy or hurt, and
then stop for the day. Do this every other day and gradually
increase the time you spend exercising, always stopping when
your muscles feel heavy or hurt. When you can exercise
continuously for 30 minutes, three times a week regularly, you
are fit and don't need to do more unless you want to. 
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