When it comes to working out, the world is absolutely filled with rumours about what can happen or what to expect. The reality is that the majority of these rumours are either flat out false or very loosely based on true statements. There is no section that is more wildly misinterpreted than that of working out over 40. For some reason, the internet loves to frighten people out of working out later in life and we are to tell you to ignore that completely.
It’s Too Late To Start Working Out
An incredibly common health myth is that you can ever be too old to work out. Working out comes in a wide variety of forms, and though some people might have certain limitations, most everyone has something that they can be safely doing for exercise. There are plenty of safe ways to improve your health. It is never too late for you to take your health into your own hands and start building good habits.
You Can’t Work Out As Hard
For some reason, the internet loves to scare people out of even trying by telling them that it is pointless. This is one myth that particularly aims to make people who lived active lifestyles when they were younger quit before they start. As is the case with any exercise routine, you’ll need to build up your endurance over time. There is no magic rule that makes you any less capable at 40.
You Won’t Be Able To Build True Muscle
In another excellent battle against human anatomy, people like to say that older people can’t build muscle in the same way. This is not even remotely true. While it is possible for you to need to take approach more slowly, there are plenty of fit and muscular adults over 40 who are not only strong, but look amazing if we do say so ourselves.
You Shouldn’t Try Certain Kinds Of Exercise
Many people seem to believe that age comes with a wide variety of limitations and it simply isn’t true. Your body does not realise that it is 40 and throw all of its youthful health out the window. Sure, you might have a condition or skill level that limits what kind of exercise you can be getting, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t still get out there and try new things. Don’t go zero to extremely strenuous working out overnight, but that has nothing to do with age. It’s a matter of sports science in general.
Your Risk Of Injury Is Too High
Another common rumour that gets thrown around is this idea that people over 40 have a much higher risk of injury. While you certainly might have a chance of having certain health factors that could increase your injury risk, that doesn’t mean that you’re going to be likely to cause yourself physical harm. A person over 40 is just as capable as anyone else when it comes to safely embracing in athletic activities.
Conclusion
When it comes to getting in shape, there is no age cutoff to pursuing it. No matter how old you are, there will always be benefits to getting more in shape. Taking the time to exercise is actually a truly great way to age gracefully. Don’t talk yourself out of the gym because you’re think that you’re too old. You’re not. You’re just as capable as anyone else, so get out there and give it a try.
