It's summer, and that means the sun is warm, the trees are green and the people want to spend time outside soaking it all in. As the baby boomer generation ages, those in that age bracket should take a few simple precautions to prevent unnecessary injury.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), Rosemont, Ill., emphasizes the importance of understanding your age when exercising, advice especially important for the baby boomer generation.
"Baby boomers have become increasingly active as they age and orthopaedic surgeons believe this trend will continue," says Dr. Ray Monto, AAOS spokesperson. "One thing to keep in mind is that when you are 50, you may injure your body more easily than when you were 20. Joints, tissues and muscles may not be as flexible as they used to be."
Stats provided by the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, Bethesda, Md., corroborate Dr. Monto's assertion. More than 166,000 people between ages 45-64 received medical treatment for exercise- or exercise-equipment-related injuries in 2008.
However, regular exercise helps prevent depression, weight gain, diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep disturbances in baby boomers, so proper exercise at any age should be a crucial part of your routine.
Some AAOS tips:
• Warm up and cool down when exercising. Cold muscles pull and strain more readily than warm ones, and light stretching reduces such a risk. "A little extra stretching before and after exercise ... goes a long way," Dr. Monto says.
• Don't be a weekend warrior. Moderate, daily exercise is more beneficial than heavy activity once or twice a week and usually results in less injury.
• Take calcium and vitamin D supplements daily. Calcium strengthens bones and joints and vitamin D aids the body in calcium absorption.
• Develop a balanced fitness program that includes cardio, strength, and flexibility training. Focusing too much on one area can overwork it. Don't take too much on at once; gradual introduction of exercises will ease stress on your body.
• Rest. Schedule days off from exercise and rest when tired.
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