“Action is the foundational key to all success.”  ~ Pablo Picasso

As we age, our bodies begin the process of physically declining. We can’t run as fast, recovery takes longer; strength and flexibility diminish. How many fifty year old professional quarterbacks do you see? Accept the fact that all of us are slaves to our body. When health collapses then nothing else works and life can easily lose much of the joy. While the eventual outcome is inevitable (at some point, our bodies will fail and we will die), the deck can be stacked in our favor so that the journey is longer and the ride much more enjoyable. 

I’m talking about the daily practice of exercise. Exercise is another of life’s absolute musts, a non-negotiable, and necessary for body maintenance and health. In my opinion, the most valuable forms of exercises are yoga and pilates. They have some similarities and are invaluable to helping maintain your balance, core strength, flexibility, stamina, and vigor. You don’t need to devote huge blocks of time to get significant results. Twenty-five to sixty minutes a day will get you there. If you’re serious about getting a life, then get serious about your health. Commit to 6 days a week for one month. Become aware of how you feel, how you move, and your balance. I recommend the following:

• The book “The Pilates Body” by Brooke Siler
• DVD “Total Yoga – 4 Pack” by Tracey Rich and Ganga White
• DVD “Rael Pilates” by Rael Isacowitz

Pay particular attention on where to breathe, contract, and relax. The videos are full of instructions to accompany each movement. Don’t expect to become ripped and muscle bound. This is about developing limber and practical muscular strength. Get serious for 30 days. You’ll be amazed at your progress and hopefully continue making this a life-long practice.

As a side note, take a look at Brooke Siler’s book. Look at the pictures of an aging Joseph Pilates (inventor of the method). Proof there is hope for a strong, vigorous second half of life.

Finally, a practice I use to further improve my balance is to do a few yoga poses with my eyes closed. Obviously, you want to use caution to prevent a fall from occurring.

“The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.” 

 ~ Vince Lombardi